Looking for Thanksgiving movies for kids? Discover the top 10 family-friendly Thanksgiving movies that kids will love, featuring heartwarming stories, fun characters, and life lessons to enjoy this holiday season.
Introduction
Thanksgiving is more than just turkey and pie; it’s a special time for families to come together, share traditions, and make memories. As you gather around for the holiday, why not bring a little movie magic into your home? Thanksgiving movies for kids offer fun stories, lovable characters, and meaningful lessons that the whole family can enjoy together.
In this post, we’ve rounded up the top 10 Thanksgiving movies for kids. Whether you’re looking for animated classics, adventure tales, or heartwarming stories, there’s something here to entertain and bring everyone closer this Thanksgiving.
Why Watch Thanksgiving Movies with Kids?
Thanksgiving movies for kids do more than just entertain. They offer valuable lessons about gratitude, family, and kindness. These movies create a perfect opportunity to unwind, bond, and start conversations about the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Plus, they give kids something to look forward to while the grown-ups are busy with holiday prep.
So grab some popcorn, cozy blankets, and gather around as we dive into the best Thanksgiving movies for kids!
Top 10 Thanksgiving Movies for Kids
1. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
Nothing says Thanksgiving like the classic A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. This movie has been a holiday staple for decades and tells the simple story of Charlie Brown trying to host a Thanksgiving dinner for his friends. With adorable characters like Snoopy and Woodstock, it’s a great way to teach kids about friendship, kindness, and the importance of giving.
Available on: Apple TV
2. Free Birds
Free Birds is a hilarious animated movie that follows two turkeys who go back in time to change the Thanksgiving tradition. Their mission? To get turkey off the Thanksgiving menu! This fun adventure is sure to make kids laugh while teaching them the importance of friendship and teamwork.
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu
3. An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving
Based on a story by Louisa May Alcott, An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving is a heartwarming tale about family, love, and tradition. It’s set in the 19th century and tells the story of a family who learns the value of togetherness during tough times. This movie is perfect for older kids and families who enjoy historical stories.
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
4. Planes, Trains and Automobiles
Although it’s rated PG-13, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles can be enjoyed by families with older kids. This classic comedy follows two mismatched travelers trying to get home for Thanksgiving. Full of laughs and funny mishaps, it’s a great reminder about patience and the value of family.
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu
5. The Mouse on the Mayflower
The Mouse on the Mayflower is an animated musical that introduces kids to the history of Thanksgiving through the eyes of a little mouse. This movie takes viewers on a journey with the Pilgrims, offering an entertaining, kid-friendly look at the origins of Thanksgiving.
Available on: DVD and digital rentals
6. Pocahontas
Though not specifically a Thanksgiving movie, Pocahontas shares themes of respect, understanding, and peace between different cultures. Kids will love the music and colorful animation, while parents can use the movie to discuss the importance of kindness and friendship.
Available on: Disney+
7. Dora’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
For younger kids, Dora’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a short but delightful movie that follows Dora as she tries to save her town’s Thanksgiving parade. With all the fun songs, puzzles, and excitement Dora is known for, this is a great pick for toddlers and preschoolers.
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+
8. Garfield’s Thanksgiving
Who doesn’t love Garfield? In Garfield’s Thanksgiving, the lazy but lovable cat faces the horror of a diet on Thanksgiving Day. Filled with funny moments, it’s a lighthearted movie that kids will enjoy while learning about moderation (and maybe not overeating too much pumpkin pie!).
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube
9. Winnie the Pooh: Seasons of Giving
This sweet, gentle movie is perfect for young children. Winnie the Pooh: Seasons of Giving follows Pooh and friends as they celebrate Thanksgiving in the Hundred Acre Wood. The movie is filled with lessons about friendship, gratitude, and helping others, making it ideal for the holiday.
Available on: Disney+
10. Addams Family Values
For families with older kids, Addams Family Values offers a quirky, funny take on Thanksgiving. In this sequel, Wednesday Addams’ memorable Thanksgiving play scene is a highlight. It’s a humorous reminder that Thanksgiving can be celebrated in unique ways, even if you’re an Addams!
Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+
How to Make Thanksgiving Movie Time Extra Special
Watching Thanksgiving movies can be even more fun with a few festive touches. Here are some tips for making movie night memorable:
1. Set Up a Cozy Viewing Space
- Grab soft blankets, fluffy pillows, and dim the lights to create a theater vibe in your living room.
2. Serve Thanksgiving-Themed Snacks
- Think mini pumpkin pies, popcorn with a sprinkle of cinnamon, or turkey-shaped cookies. Kids will love the holiday treats!
3. Encourage Family Discussions
- After the movie, ask your kids about their favorite scenes or what they learned. It’s a great way to reinforce the themes of gratitude and kindness.
4. Create a Thanksgiving Movie Countdown
- Consider watching a new Thanksgiving movie each day leading up to Thanksgiving. It’s a fun tradition that keeps the holiday spirit alive all week.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving movies for kids bring a unique blend of fun, laughter, and life lessons. Whether you’re introducing them to classics like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving or sharing laughs with Free Birds, these movies provide the perfect backdrop for family bonding. Remember, Thanksgiving is about togetherness, gratitude, and cherishing the little moments, and these movies capture all of that and more.
So, this holiday season, make a little time for a Thanksgiving movie marathon. With cozy blankets, tasty snacks, and family by your side, it’s sure to become a Thanksgiving tradition that everyone looks forward to each year!
FAQs
1. What are some Thanksgiving movies suitable for young children?
- Dora’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Winnie the Pooh: Seasons of Giving, and Garfield’s Thanksgiving are great picks for younger kids.
2. Can we watch Thanksgiving movies on streaming platforms?
- Yes! Many Thanksgiving movies for kids are available on popular streaming platforms like Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Hulu.
3. Which Thanksgiving movie teaches kids about gratitude?
- A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving and Winnie the Pooh: Seasons of Giving have strong themes of gratitude and friendship.
4. Is Planes, Trains, and Automobiles okay for kids to watch?
- It’s rated PG-13, so it’s more suitable for older kids and teenagers.
5. How can I make Thanksgiving movie time more engaging?
- Set up a cozy viewing area, serve holiday-themed snacks, and discuss the movie’s themes with your kids to make it extra special.
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