The task: Discovering the best kids' movies on Netflix that both adults and older children will enjoy. Thankfully, there are plenty of films that will captivate the younger audience while still being fun for grown-ups.
We’ve narrowed down the selection to the top-tier picks, including some classic favorites you might recall from your own childhood. These Netflix kids' movies are not only beloved by kids but also offer layers of meaning for adults in their dialogues, artistic style, and storylines. The best part? You can watch them as many times as you want, so feel free to binge away.
Netflix-Original Animated Family Movies
For animation fans, Netflix offers an impressive selection of kids' movies—check out a few of our top recommendations.
Nimona
Nimona, a shape-shifting outsider, forms an unlikely friendship with a kind-hearted knight wrongfully accused of murder. Together, they embark on a journey to clear the knight's name and help Nimona find her place in the world.
Leo
In this heartwarming story, Adam Sandler co-created (and stars in!) a charming tale about an ancient class pet lizard who imparts life lessons to a sixth-grade class.
Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio

Oscar-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro brings a new perspective to the iconic tale of a wooden puppet becoming a real boy in this breathtaking stop-motion remake. The voice cast features talents like Ewan McGregor, Cate Blanchett, Tilda Swinton, and Finn Wolfhard.
Extinct

For those seeking cute animated creatures and a loose environmental message, Extinct follows two endearing doughnut-shaped animals who travel to the future and discover they've gone extinct. They team up with a group of other extinct creatures as they attempt to find their way back home. The film stars comedic talents like Rachel Bloom, Catherine O'Hara, Ken Jeong, and Adam DeVine.
The Willoughbys

This highly acclaimed yet often overlooked 2020 animated feature tells the story of a less-than-perfect family and their children's heartfelt efforts to bring more happiness into their home. The film features an all-star voice cast including Jane Krakowski, Martin Short, Maya Rudolph, and Terry Crews.
Over the Moon

A delightful addition to Netflix's original kids' movie lineup, this musical adventure follows a young girl named Fei Fei as she embarks on a journey to the moon to prove to her father that love lasts forever. Along the way, she meets a mythical goddess and experiences a world full of magic, color, and adventure. With themes of family and love, this film is a heartwarming experience for viewers of all ages. The soundtrack, featuring stunning performances by Phillipa Soo of Hamilton, is sure to become a family favorite. Rated PG.
Klaus

Undoubtedly one of the finest kids' Christmas films on Netflix, this Netflix Original offers a unique take on the origin story of Santa Claus. The plot follows a lazy postman sent to a remote village to learn valuable life lessons, where he unexpectedly sparks change in the small community and discovers new insights about himself. While perfect for the Christmas season, this heartwarming movie can be enjoyed year-round. Rated PG.
Back to the Outback

This animated feature from December 2021 showcases a group of Australian animals in a zoo who decide to join forces and escape to the Outback to live freely. The film imparts a valuable lesson for children: not to judge others based on appearances.
That Christmas
Adapted from Richard Curtis's delightful trilogy of children's books, this animated film weaves together several heartwarming tales set in the seaside town of Wellington-on-Sea during the holiday season. With a star-studded voice cast including Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, Jodie Whittaker, and Bill Nighy, this is the ideal family film to bring festive joy into your home.
The Magician’s Elephant
Adapted from Kate DiCamillo's cherished 2009 novel, this touching story follows young Peter as he embarks on a journey to find his lost sister. A fortune teller’s cryptic prophecy claims that an elephant will guide him to her, leading Peter into a world of unexpected friendships and hidden truths, where his courage and belief in the impossible are put to the test.
Blockbuster Animated Movies for Families
Whether you missed them in theaters or simply can't get enough of them, these top animated kids' films are now available for streaming on Netflix. They're perfect for a cozy family movie night.
A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon

The renowned British claymation studio presents this delightful film, where Shaun and his flock come to the aid of an alien creature that crash-lands near their farm. If your kids love Shaun, they can enjoy many more sheep-filled adventures on Netflix.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
Even if you're not a huge superhero fan, the stunning animation and captivating storyline of this critically acclaimed sequel to 2018's Into the Spider-Verse will win you over. The star-studded voice cast includes Donald Glover, Andy Samberg, Rachel Dratch, Oscar Isaac, Shameik Moore, Daniel Kaluuya, Kathryn Hahn, and Mahershala Ali.
Mary and the Witch's Flower
For families that adore anime, check out this breathtaking 2017 film, where a magical flower and a broomstick offer a young girl entry to a mysterious and possibly perilous school of magic.
Trolls

The adored, so-ugly-they're-cute dolls from back in the day gave rise to this heartwarming movie that will give you all the feels. With Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick leading a star-studded cast, you can expect plenty of catchy tunes to sing along to.
Minions

Everyone's favorite silly yellow characters take center stage in this 2015 delight, where they embark on a quest to find the ultimate supervillain to serve.
Boss Baby

A literal baby-faced spy takes center stage in this hilarious animated series, which led to multiple sequels (and spin-offs) now available for streaming on Netflix!
Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken
This newly arrived DreamWorks film on Netflix is an excellent choice for tweens and teens. Ruby Gillman, struggling to fit in at school, discovers she is set to become the Queen of the Krakens. To protect the ocean, she must confront their adversaries, the mermaids, including her new best friend Chelsea, and battle for control.
Classic Family Movies on Netflix
Consider adding these classic family films to your list for the next movie night with your loved ones.
The Karate Kid (1984)

Embark on the uplifting journey of Daniel LaRusso, a teenager who trains in karate with his mentor, Mr. Miyagi, to protect himself from bullies. This action-filled adventure about determination and friendship remains a timeless favorite for families.
Mr. Peabody & Sherman

Join the brilliant beagle Mr. Peabody and his inquisitive son Sherman as they embark on thrilling time-travel adventures in their DIY time machine.
Kung Fu Panda 3
Revisit the action-packed events of Kung Fu Panda 3 before the highly anticipated fourth movie arrives in theaters on March 8th. In this chapter, Jack Black reprises his role as the kung fu master panda, Po, who must unite a new group of warriors to face a powerful adversary.
Netflix Live-Action Family Movies
Netflix offers an array of live-action family-friendly films, from engaging documentaries to exciting adventure stories, perfect for any movie night.
The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar
The collaboration between author Roald Dahl and director Wes Anderson creates a perfect blend of creativity. This film is the first of four short films Anderson is adapting from Dahl's classic stories for Netflix, with more to come, including 'The Swan,' 'The Ratcatcher,' and 'Poison.'
Bonus: With a runtime of just 39 minutes, this is the ideal choice for those nights when you're looking for a shorter kids' movie before bedtime.
Matilda the Musical
The Roald Dahl tale of the clever, telekinetic girl seeking her place in the world has inspired a beloved musical that will have the whole family singing along to 'Revolting Children.'
Family Switch
The classic body-swap trope gets a fresh spin in this remake, where Jennifer Garner, Ed Helms, and Emma Myers (the cheerful wolfie roommate from Wednesday Addams in Wednesday) are among the family members and even pets involved in the switch.
You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah
Produced by Adam Sandler, this family-friendly comedy centers on two best friends who fall out over middle school drama just as they approach their bat mitzvahs. It's like Bride Wars, but for 13-year-olds!
The School for Good and Evil

Based on the hit fantasy novel, this film takes you to a school where fairy tale heroes and villains are trained. With a star-studded cast including Cate Blanchett, Kerry Washington, Michelle Yeoh, Charlize Theron, and Patti LuPone, the over-the-top performances are sure to keep adults entertained.
Slumberland
A girl embarks on a journey through the land of dreams (and nightmares) in a quest to reconnect with her late father. However, the real draw of this adventure might just be her companion—none other than Jason Momoa.
Enola Holmes
This fresh take on the classic detective stories by Arthur Conan Doyle features Sherlock Holmes in a more peripheral role while his clever younger sister, Enola, takes the lead in solving mysteries and embarking on thrilling adventures.
Fans of Millie Bobby Brown from Stranger Things will enjoy her portrayal of Enola, while adults can look forward to seeing Henry Cavill as Sherlock and Helena Bonham Carter as their enigmatic mother, Eudoria Holmes, who’s been missing for years.
For a double feature, don't miss the sequel to Enola Holmes, also available for your viewing pleasure.
Ivy and Bean

Inspired by the beloved children's book series, Ivy and Bean tells the story of two unlikely friends—outspoken Bean and introverted Ivy—who embark on a series of exciting adventures. If your family enjoys the first movie, there are two more films in the series awaiting you.
Puff: Wonders of the Reef

This delightful short documentary takes viewers on a heartwarming journey as a baby pufferfish searches for its new home in the vibrant Great Barrier Reef. Narrated by actress Rose Byrne.
John Mulaney & the Sack Lunch Bunch

Comedian John Mulaney parodies the eccentric children’s specials of the 1980s in this whimsically offbeat, music-filled event, featuring a talented cast of kids and a star-studded lineup including David Byrne, Jake Gyllenhaal, Annaleigh Ashford, and Andre De Shields.
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind

Based on a true story, this inspiring biographical drama tells the tale of a young boy who constructs a wind turbine to help his famine-stricken village in Malawi. Alongside the book, this narrative is a powerful testament to resilience and determination, encouraging viewers to take action and help those in need. Rated TV-PG.
Moxie!

This empowering teen tale (with a touch of vintage riot grrl spirit) will strike a chord with both teenage girls and their mothers. Amy Poehler plays the protagonist’s mom, and a special appearance by the rising punk band, The Linda Lindas, adds the perfect final touch!
Yes Day

Based on Amy Krouse Rosenthal's beloved book, this film follows a mom and dad who say 'Yes' to every request their kids make, turning an ordinary day into a whirlwind of fun and chaos. Jennifer Garner stars as the mom leading this adventurous, anything-goes day.