Getting kids excited about the start of a new school year can be a tricky task. But a family movie night featuring a back-to-school movie can be an excellent way to get kids energized and enthused for September.
“Movies and other media can offer great learning opportunities for both kids and parents,” says Betsy Bozdech, executive editor at Common Sense Media.
“It’s sometimes easier for kids to talk about what’s going on in their lives—especially when it comes to the tough stuff—when they’re discussing a third party.”
Most back to school movies aimed at kids and teens manage to sneak a lesson or two into the plot, which makes for a smooth transition for talking to your kids about what they might expect from the upcoming year and the highs and lows of school life.
So, grab the popcorn and cozy up. These back to school movies for kids are a great way to gear up for a new school year. And keep in mind, subscriptions and rental fees vary.
Fun Back-to-School Movies
All kids have different maturity levels, but per Common Sense Media, these movies are best for kids 6, 7, 8 and older. To find out the exact ages Common Sense recommends, search the movie title in their database.
1. Matilda the Musical
Image source: imdb
A fantastical, musical rendition of Roald Dahl’s masterpiece (and the TV version of the Broadway play!). Matilda, a girl genius growing up in harsh circumstances, finds her “person” in one of her teachers.
Talk to the kids about: Daring to be different. Matilda always stands up for what she believes in. How can your kids do the same?
- Runtime: 1 hour, 57 minutes
- Where to watch: Netflix
2. Akeelah and the Bee
Starring Keke Palmer, this movie illustrates themes such as setting high expectations for yourself, overcoming obstacles, and doing the right thing—even if it costs you. A good depiction of perseverance and integrity, this movie is the classic feel-good story.
Talk to the kids about: Akeelah has to face some challenges on her path. How would your kids face similar challenges?
- Runtime: 1 hour, 52 minutes
- Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Image source: Prime Video
3. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Image source: Amazon.in
The Harry Potter series is credited with introducing 21st-century children to the joys of reading. The Sorcerer’s Stone is the first movie in the series and a delightful film for kids. Says Friedman, “Harry Potter is a great story about how joining a school changed someone’s life and became the most important thing in it.” Watching Harry as he makes friends and navigates Hogwarts can help make them excited about school.
Talk to the kids about: Start discussions about trying new things and interacting with kids they don’t know.
- Runtime: 2 hours, 32 minutes
- Watch: HBO Max
4. Freaky Friday
What better way to understand your mom than to walk in her shoes? As Friedman states, “This movie is great for kids and parents to watch together to help them get where the other is coming from.”
Talk to the kids about: Discuss the things you do that they may not agree with and see if they can point out ways you always have their best interest at heart.
- Runtime: 1 hour, 30 minutes
- Watch: Disney Plus Hotstar
Image source: imdb
5. Mad Hot Ballroom
Image source: Amazon.in
This documentary follows a group of kids in New York who discover a love for ballroom dancing. Friedman recommends the movie because, “It’s a great documentary about NYC public school kids and how ballroom dancing changed their lives.” It showcases how kids in tough situations can find solace in extracurricular activities. The kids in this movie are passionate and dedicated, which motivates them to excel in other areas of life as well.
Talk to the kids about: Examine the lessons this special group of kids learned and how they can apply them to their own life.
- Runtime: 1 hour, 45 minutes
- Watch: Amazon Prime Video
6. Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Greg Heffley’s adventures as he navigates the trials and tribulations of middle school are both hilarious and relatable. This movie captures the essence of what it’s like to be a kid trying to fit in and find their place.
Talk to the kids about: Handling peer pressure and staying true to themselves.
- Runtime: 1 hour, 34 minutes
- Watch: Disney Plus Hotstar
Image source: Wikipedia
7. The Princess Diaries
Image source: Disney Plus Hotstar
A shy, awkward teenager discovers she is the heir to the throne of a European kingdom. This movie is great for showing kids that it’s okay to be different and that everyone has unique qualities that make them special.
Talk to the kids about: Embracing who they are and the importance of self-confidence.
- Runtime: 1 hour, 55 minutes
- Watch: Disney Plus Hotstar
8. The Perks of Being a Wallflower
This coming-of-age film deals with themes of friendship, love, and mental health. It’s a deeper, more mature film for older teens that can help open up discussions about their own experiences and feelings.
Talk to the kids about: Mental health and the importance of reaching out for support.
- Runtime: 1 hour, 43 minutes
- Watch: IMDb
Image source: Amazon.in
9. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Image source: imdb
A high school student takes a day off from school to explore Chicago with his friends. It’s a fun, lighthearted film that showcases the importance of balancing fun with responsibility.
Talk to the kids about: The balance between having fun and meeting their obligations.
- Runtime: 1 hour, 43 minutes
- Watch: Amazon Prime Video
10. School of Rock
A wannabe rock star in need of cash poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school and turns a class of straight-A students into a rock band. It’s a hilarious movie that teaches kids the value of following their passion.
Talk to the kids about: The importance of pursuing what they love and being themselves.
- Runtime: 1 hour, 48 minutes
- Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Image source: Amazon.in
11. Dead Poets Society
Image source: Amazon.in
An English teacher inspires his students to pursue their dreams and seize the day. This classic film is ideal for teens and emphasizes the importance of thinking for oneself.
Talk to the kids about: Critical thinking and the courage to pursue their dreams.
- Runtime: 2 hours, 8 minutes
- Watch: Disney Plus Hotstar
12. High School Musical
A popular high school athlete and a shy new student share a passion for singing and secretly audition for the school musical. This film is fun and engaging, perfect for younger teens and tweens.
Talk to the kids about: Balancing different interests and breaking social norms.
- Runtime: 1 hour, 38 minutes
- Watch: Disney Plus Hotstar
Image source: imdb
13. Mean Girls
Image source: imdb
A new student navigates the social hierarchy of high school and learns about friendship and self-respect. It’s a great film for teens that highlights the complexities of teenage social life.
Talk to the kids about: The importance of kindness and being true to oneself.
- Runtime: 1 hour, 37 minutes
- Watch: Netflix
14. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
A teenage girl’s secret love letters are exposed, turning her quiet high school life upside down. It’s a charming story about love, relationships, and growing up.
Talk to the kids about: The importance of honesty and communication in relationships.
- Runtime: 1 hour, 39 minutes
- Watch: Netflix
Image source: Amazon.in
15. The Karate Kid
Image source: Wikipedia
A young boy learns karate from a sensei to defend himself against bullies. It’s an inspiring film about discipline, perseverance, and self-respect.
Talk to the kids about: Standing up for oneself and the value of hard work and discipline.
- Runtime: 2 hours, 6 minutes
- Watch: IMDb
Conclusion
Back to school movies can be a great way to get kids excited about the upcoming school year. These films offer valuable lessons and can spark meaningful conversations about school life, challenges, and new beginnings. So, set up a family movie night and enjoy these wonderful films together!
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