The Best Toddler Movies (and Where to Watch Them)
You might try to reduce screen time in your household, but—let’s be honest—sometimes it’s inevitable. By pressing “play” on a toddler movie, you can buy yourself around an hour to do whatever you need to do before the end credits roll. What’s more, these magical films aren’t just for show, they can also be educational. The best toddler movies introduce little ones to new perspectives, ideas and emotions, helping them to better understand the world around them. All of that is to say, picking out toddler movies can lead to fun, memorable experiences for you both. Whether you’re choosing your tot’s very first film or are looking for some new content (after your kiddo has replayed their favorite for the hundredth time), we’ve got you covered. Below, check out the best toddler movies and where to stream them.
You may know where to watch all of your favorite films, but what about toddler movies? Luckily, all of the top streaming platforms have ample options when it comes to kid-friendly content. Here, check out our favorite places to watch toddler movies online:
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Prime Video: If you’re already an Amazon Prime member, then you’re automatically able to stream TV shows and films on Prime Video. The online platform features hundreds of options to choose from, including seasonal picks like toddler Halloween movies or Christmas flicks. Not a member? No problem—you can also rent or buy a wide variety of films to stream at your convenience, without paying a subscription fee.
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Hulu/Disney+: You might use Hulu to catch the latest season of The Kardashians or binge-watch The Bear, but the streaming website also features plenty of kid-friendly content. Better yet, with the Hulu/Disney+ bundle, you’ll have access to all of Disney’s back catalog (think: The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo and Ratatouille)—as well as new favorites, like Coco, Moana and Encanto. On the streaming platform, you’ll also come across a wide variety of TV shows for both your kiddo and yourself to enjoy. Subscriptions start at $7.99 per month (or just $14.99 per month for the Hulu/Disney+ bundle), and with that, your little one can watch as many toddler movies as they’d like, 24/7 (or at least until bedtime). Plus, Hulu adds films to their website each month, so you’ll always have something new to watch for family movie night!
Want to pick out the best first movie for your kiddo, but not sure what to look for? When choosing, keep the following in mind:
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Film rating: First and foremost, check the film rating on the movie before showing it to your child. Toddler movies rated “G” are appropriate for all ages, so you can rest assured it’s suitable for your tot. On the other hand, those rated “PG” may contain scenes that young children may find upsetting, so parental guidance is suggested.
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Running time: Does your little one have a short attention span? Luckily, some toddler movies have shorter running times than typical films to keep kiddos engaged. Conversely, if you’re searching for a film that will occupy your kiddo for a longer period of time—maybe during a rainy afternoon or a long-haul flight—opt for a toddler movie that runs closer to the two-hour mark.
Ready for a family movie night? (Or maybe just an hour and 20 minutes of relative peace and quiet?) We have your back. Below, discover our favorite toddler movies to stream now.
Feel-good animation
This toddler movie may have come out almost three decades ago, but it’s stood the test of time for good reason. The well-loved flick follows the story of Woody, a toy cowboy, and Buzz Lightyear, an action figure, who both belong to a young boy named Andy. But, when Andy and his family move to a new house, some of his playthings get left behind. Over the course of the film, they learn about friendship as they work together with the other toys to reunite with their kiddo.
Film rating: G | Running time: 81 minutes | Year released: 1995
Touching ocean tale
Just keep swimming, just keep swimming! You can probably quote a few lines from Finding Nemo—or, if you can’t already, you will be able to after your kiddo streams this flick for the dozenth time. This modern classic depicts the story of Nemo, a young clownfish, who ends up very far away from home. With the help of his new aquarium friends and his dad, Marlin, he ends up right back where he needs to be.
Film rating: G | Running time: 100 minutes | Year released: 2003
“My 5-year-old has watched this movie a bunch of times over the years, starting from when she was about 3. She loves all the animals and adventures in this story! Fair warning: There are several scary scenes, including a barracuda attack, a shark chase and a chomping angler fish, among others. My little one never flinched, but she doesn't scare easily.” – Ashlee, mom of two and content director at The Bump
Heartwarming story about friendship
Even though this playful toddler movie is full of monsters, it’s still sure to make your little one giggle. In it, a curious little girl finds her way into Monstropolis, where everyone is scared of her. With the help of her new friends, Mike and Sulley, she finds her way back home, and, throughout her adventure, teaches a few monsters not to judge a book by its cover.
Film rating: G | Running time: 92 minutes | Year released: 2001
Cheerful adventure tale
This sentimental Pixar film is sure to tug at your heartstrings—no matter your age. The toddler movie depicts Carl Fredrickson, a retired balloon salesman, and Carl, a young Wilderness Explorer, who go on an unexpected journey together. Floating through the sky in a house tied to thousands of balloons, the unlikely duo face new adventures as they set sail to the South American jungle. Best of all, they meet a sweet golden retriever named Dug during their travels.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 96 minutes | Year released: 2009
Tantalizing Pixar film
Delve into the tasty, wonderful world of Remy the rat with this toddler movie. The tantalizing flick follows Remy’s journey to Paris, where he has the opportunity to follow his passion for cooking. He’ll run into a few obstacles (namely being a rat in a kitchen) and, of course, make a few friends. Your kiddo may even pick up a few French words after watching this flick—très bien!
Film rating: G | Running time: 111 minutes | Year released: 2007
“I happen to love this movie and its sweet message, so I was excited to share it with my then-4-year-old. She definitely enjoyed it as well, and thought the rat yanking the chef's hair to control him was just hilarious. I had to do a fair amount of explaining what was happening, and she got very upset when the family of rats got washed down the pipes, but it didn't spoil her experience.” – Ashlee, mom of two and content director at The Bump
Colorful animation
The classic children’s story is given a modern adaptation in this toddler movie. The plot focuses on the Lorax, a grumpy yet lovable character who speaks on behalf of the trees in this whimsical world. The colorful scenery and charming characters make this a great option for younger and older tots alike.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 86 minutes | Year released: 2012
“This is one of my daughter's favorite movies! It's got cute animals, fun colors and entertaining songs. There's very little that could be construed as scary, making it ideal for younger and more sensitive toddlers. It also offers parents the perfect opportunity to talk about (age-appropriate) environmental issues.” – Ashlee, mom of two and content director at The Bump
Heartwarming favorite
Even if you haven’t seen Frozen, you probably know at least a few lyrics to “Let It Go.” This mystical movie for toddlers features a cast of characters who are equal parts courageous and goofy, resulting in a flick your kiddo will want to watch time and time again (trust us). Plus, the film’s enchanting, Everest-like backdrop is sure to captivate your little one.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 102 minutes | Year released: 2013
“Is there a bigger Disney Princess movie than Frozen? Not in our household, at least. My daughter's preschool years were a blur of Elsa birthday parties, Anna dress-up outfits and of course, the soundtrack. It was the background music of our lives for years. I think we still do a pretty good duet of ‘Love Is an Open Door.’” – Daniel, dad of one and associate director of e-commerce content at The Bump
Modern adaptation of a classic
You may be familiar with Charlie Brown and Snoopy from your own childhood, making this a great option for family movie nights. The Peanuts Movie brings back all of the cartoon characters you know and love in a modern adaptation. In it, Charlie Brown and Snoopy both go off on their own quests, with help from the gang along the way, of course.
Film rating: G | Running time: 88 minutes | Year released: 2015
“Like most people, I grew up on Peanuts comics, and The Peanuts Movie really captures the spirit and timelessness of those classic strips. In fact, I have a fond memory of watching this movie with my daughter and mother; three generations who all love Charlie Brown and Snoopy, and we all loved this movie.” – Daniel, dad of one and associate director of e-commerce content at The Bump
Playful animation
Your favorite monkey is back in this animated adaptation of a classic children’s book. Your tot will love watching Curious George get up to mischief around New York City, in this vibrant, fun film. Plus, you and your kiddo will both appreciate the sing-a-long soundtrack, created by Jack Johnson.
Film rating: G | Running time: 87 minutes | Year released: 2006
Vibrant, musical adventure
The best toddler movies are those that are colorful, magical and musical. This bright Disney animation checks all of those boxes, and then some. Your tot will love singing along with their favorite characters as the protagonist, a girl named Mirabel, helps save her family’s extraordinary abilities.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 102 minutes | Year released: 2021
“Encanto is a lovely movie about a magical intergenerational Colombian family that both adults and children can enjoy. And since it's the first—and so far, only—movie my 2-year-old has watched (he's usually more of a Ms. Rachel fan), it's also by default his favorite. He seemed transfixed by the singing and dancing, plus all the magic going on on-screen—as attested by the fact that he sat and watched for a full 30 minutes. I cannot underscore how rare this is. Maybe one day we'll get through the entire movie, but for now I'll take that to mean that Encanto was a hit with him!” – Natalie, mom of one and senior editor at The Bump
Beloved sequel
Is your little one a big fan of the first Toy Story film? Then the sequel is sure to be a hit in your household. The toddler movie has all of the characters you adore from the first, including a few new faces, like Jessie, the toy cowgirl. In it, the gang reunites to rescue Woody from Al, a greedy toy collector.
Film rating: G | Running time: 92 minutes | Year released: 1999
Magical adventure anime
Ponyo is a heartwarming anime, directed by the legendary Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki. In this offbeat adaptation of The Little Mermaid, the masterful storyteller creates a magical world in which a goldfish princess, Ponyo, and a human boy, Sosuke, become friends. While the pair face challenges and adventures throughout Ponyo's quest to become human, their bond helps them get through it together.
Film rating: G | Running time: 102 minutes | Year released: 2009
“When my now-tween daughter was in preschool, Ponyo set her on the path of a decade-long (and counting!) love of anime. The movie is a perfect age-appropriate mix of humor and adventure that absolutely captivated her the moment she saw it. She even went through a phase of declaring, ‘PONYO WANTS HAM’ every time she saw a cold cut.” – Daniel, dad of one and associate director of e-commerce content at The Bump
Quirky Christmas flick
Looking for the perfect toddler Christmas movie? You can’t go wrong with The Grinch! Your tot may even love this funny film so much that they’ll want to stream it all year round. While you watch, expect whimsical backdrops, quirky characters and, of course, a heartwarming tale at the center of it all.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 105 minutes | Year released: 2000
Exciting princess story
When it comes to toddler movies about princesses, there are quite a few out there. One of our favorites is Mulan, which depicts the heartwarming, action-packed story of Mulan, a young woman who disguises herself as a man to take her ill father’s spot in the Chinese military. Your kiddo will learn about perseverance, bravery and love as they watch this fearless hero achieve her goals.
Film rating: G | Running time: 87 minutes | Year released: 1998
Vibrant, musical animation
This unique film vividly portrays one family’s Day of the Dead festivities. When Miguel, a young boy, isn’t able to follow his passion for music because of an ancestral family ban, he goes on a journey through the afterlife to find his great-great-grandfather, a legendary singer. An added bonus: This toddler movie has a beautiful soundtrack, so it won’t get (too) annoying during constant replays.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 105 minutes | Year released: 2017
Short animation
This animated toddler movie was created with younger viewers in mind—especially those already familiar with the TV show, Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood. The film follows Daniel and his family as they go on a sweet road trip together. Plus, the running time is just under one hour, making it a great first film to introduce your little one to longer stories.
Film rating: G | Running time: 51 minutes | Year released: 2012
Cheerful puppy film
Your tot’s favorite four-legged friends are back in this feature-length film! If your kiddo is a fan of the PAW Patrol series, you can’t go wrong with sticking this toddler movie on. In it, six brave puppies work together to keep their city safe from their rival, Humdinger.
Film rating: G | Running time: 86 minutes | Year released: 2021
“Chase is on the case to give mama some much-needed me-time. The PAW Patrol movie gives me a solid one hour and 25 minutes of peace and quiet at least twice a week. If that's not a parenting win, I don't know what is.” – Lauren, mom of three and associate content director of lifecycle content at The Bump
Funny fairytale
Tired of classic fairytales? Then Shrek will be a surefire winner in your home. This funny toddler movie features a charming, goofy cast who are sure to make your little one giggle. Expect to see the three blind mice, a big bad wolf, three little pigs and of course, Donkey, Shrek and Princess Fiona in this playful film.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 90 minutes | Year released: 2001
A sweet classic
Searching for classic toddler movies that the whole family can watch together? Dumbo is sure to fit the bill. The film was released in 1941, meaning it’s a flick that you, your child and even your parent may have seen as a little one, making it a great option for your next family movie night with the grandparents. It also is only just over an hour long, so younger tots can stay engaged throughout.
Film rating: G | Running time: 63 minutes | Year released: 1941
Easygoing comedy
You may know that your kiddo loves playing with LEGO, but did you know there’s also a LEGO Movie? You do now! This easygoing toddler movie depicts a vibrant, funny world populated by LEGO people, of course. In it, an ordinary figurine, Emmett, is mistakenly given the responsibility of saving the community, resulting in a funny, joy-filled tale that’s sure to pique your child’s curiosity.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 100 minutes | Year released: 2014
Quirky animation
In this quirky toddler movie, a teeny tiny ant goes on a larger-than-life journey. He learns about inner strength and persistence as he assembles a group of friends to take on the grasshoppers bullying their homes.
Film rating: G | Running time: 94 minutes | Year released: 1998
Topsy-turvy tale
Here’s another toddler movie that multiple generations of your family will love. The classic Disney animation traces Alice’s topsy-turvy journey down a rabbit hole, where she discovers an array of dazzling, curious creatures.
Film rating: G | Running time: 75 minutes | Year released: 1951
Action-packed animation
On the hunt for an inspiring animation to show your toddler? Enter: Moana. The exciting, heartwarming flick follows the titular character Moana as she teams up with the demigod Maui to save her people. On their fun-filled voyage, Moana learns how important it is to believe in herself to achieve her goals.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 107 minutes | Year released: 2016
Classic book adaptation
Charlotte’s Web is an adaptation of a classic chapter book from 1952, about the unlikely relationship between a spider and a piglet. While there are sad moments at points, this toddler movie will teach your little one about compassion, responsibility and, of course, friendship.
Film rating: G | Running time: 96 minutes | Year released: 2006
Dreamy Pixar flick
It’s never too early (or too late!) to teach your child about emotional intelligence. This vibrant toddler movie depicts our most abstract emotions as funny, easy-to-understand characters, to help your child recognize their own feelings more clearly.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 94 minutes | Year released: 2015
Musical adventure
Is your tot a huge fan of Sesame Street? Then this toddler movie is sure to be a winner. At the start, Elmo loses his favorite blanket after a tug-of-war with Zoe. This leads him to adventure through Grouchland to retrieve his lovey, learning about sharing and responsibility over the course of the film.
Film rating: G | Running time: 63 minutes | Year released: 1999
Gentle fantasy tale
Up next is another playful anime from Studio Ghibli. This toddler movie depicts a rural Japanese village, complete with magical creatures at every turn. Here, sisters Mei and Satsuki soon become friends with Totoro, a giant, rabbit-like, spiritual being, who appears to provide hope when they’re feeling down. In addition to the sweet, gentle storyline, you’ll also appreciate the beautiful scenery and whimsical characters.
Film rating: G | Running time: 88 minutes | Year released: 1990
Fun-filled animation
If you’re looking for a toddler movie that’s pure entertainment, Minions has got you covered. In this flick, minions Kevin, Stuart and Bob embark on a journey to find a new master to serve. As a result, characters voiced by Sandra Bullock and Jon Hamm get them embroiled in a plan to take over the world.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 91 minutes | Year released: 2015
Animated comedy film
Whether your little one has watched The Rugrats TV show or not, they’re sure to love this fun toddler movie. The plot follows a toddler, Tommy, who’s about to become a new big brother. Over the course of the film, he learns about sharing, responsibility and what it means to become an older sibling for the first time.
Film rating: G | Running time: 79 minutes | Year released: 1998
Fast-lane flick
Vroom, vroom! This toddler movie is ideal for little car enthusiasts. It follows the story of Lightning McQueen, a famous race car who gets stranded in a desert town along Route 66. Here, he meets an array of funny characters who teach him that there’s more to life than just racing.
Film rating: G | Running time: 116 minutes | Year released: 2006
Prehistoric adventure
This delightful animation is full of prehistoric fun. Your tot will love watching this funny group of extinct animals band together to return a human baby to its father. The unlikely friends work together to save the day, traversing across a beautifully animated landscape as they do so.
Film rating: PG | Running time: 82 minutes | Year released: 2002
Whimsical animation
Inspired by the 1954 children’s book of the same name, Horton Hears a Who is a whimsical animation about Horton, an elephant. In this film, his friends and neighbors don’t believe that he’s found an entire world of people living in a speck of dust. This clever toddler movie will teach your kiddo about compassion, and introduce them to early ideas about environmentalism.
Film rating: G | Running time: 86 minutes | Year released: 2008
Short, sweet animation
Last but not least on our list is Miffy the Movie. The film is inspired by the fictional Dutch rabbit, Miffy, who’s been in dozens of books and TV shows since the 1950s. Set in a zoo, the plot follows Miffy and her friends as they embark on a fun-filled treasure hunt. Better yet, this relatively short toddler movie comes in at just over an hour, making it an ideal choice for younger tots.
Film rating: G | Running time: 67 minutes | Year released: 2013
To help you pick the best toddler movies for your little one, we browsed dozens of options from our favorite streaming services. When choosing which films to include in our roundup, we considered several aspects, such as running time and genre. Plus, we only included movies rated G or PG. Since many of us are parents, we also relied on our writers’ and editors’ experience showing these films to their own kiddos.
Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here.
Plus, more from The Bump:
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