KIDS FIRST! Best Films and TV Shows of 2025 for Kids and Families

What are the best movies and TV shows for kids and families of 2025? While the year started slowly in cinemas, streamers quickly raised the bar. Kicking off the year were major home releases like Aardman’s Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (Netflix) and StuGo (Disney+). Theaters quickly followed with family-friendly hits like Autumn and the Black Jaguar and Universal’s Dog Man.

The year gathered pace with blockbuster hits that our KIDS FIRST! Film Critics rated highly. February delivered five-star reviews for Captain America: Brave New World, Paddington in Peru, and The Unbreakable Boy. March brought excitement with Plankton: The Movie and the much-discussed Snow White (a KIDS FIRST! favorite), alongside The Electric State.
The major studios offered big swings in the spring and summer: April premiered Andor: Season 2 and Sea Lions of the Galapagos (Disney+). May saw Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, Disney's live-action Lilo and Stitch, and the return of Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan in Karate Kid: Legends. June was dominated by Disney-Pixar’s Elio, F1® The Movie, and the live-action How to Train Your Dragon. Later, we enjoyed summer tentpoles like Smurfs, Superman, and the touching documentary Shari & Lamb Chop.

The fall was strong, featuring The Bad Guys 2 (August), Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie (September), and the cinematic event Wicked: For Good (November), alongside Zootopia 2 and Sarah’s Oil. Closing out the year in December are top contenders Avatar: Fire and Ash, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw, and Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2.

Not every title mentioned is a blockbuster, but all are worthy of notice. Our KIDS FIRST! Film Critics reviewed over 385 films and TV shows in 2025, including many independent features and shorts submitted to our KIDS FIRST! Film Festival, which partners with venues nationwide.

Read on to see our entire list of what KIDS FIRST! believes are the best films and TV shows of 2025 — a year so strong we included over 70 titles!

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowlreleased on Netflix on January 5, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. One of the most impressive parts of this film is its animation technique. Wallace & Gromit films all use claymation which is a mix of computer animation and clay models of characters and sets. The film’s message is to always be careful with what you create and trust your gut instinct. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/wallace-and-gromit-vengeance-most-fowl/

StuGo released on Disney Plus and the Disney Channel on January 11, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 and recommends it for ages 8 to 18. This show promotes the importance of friendship and the idea that you can have fun while still being careful. Each message is pushed naturally and sinks into your mind very well, subtly teaching great lessons. However, if your child has a fear of suspenseful themes and some odd looking mutated characters.
Autumn and the Black Jaguarreleased to theaters nationwide on January 17, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The story follows Autumn’s inspiring journey, which is a reminder to stand up for those who would do the same for you in your time of need – animals as well as people. Autumn and the Black Jaguar also highlights the importance of perseverance. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/autumnandtheblackjaguar/

Henry Danger: The Movie released on Nickelodeon and Paramount + on January 17, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. The film’s message is that you don’t always have to have special abilities to be a hero and that together as a team you can always get any job or challenge accomplished. https://www.kidsfirst.org/detail/225074.html

Star Trek: Section 31released on Paramount+ on January 24, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The show’s message is that, even when things go wrong, if you lean on others, you can get through it. Be aware that there are scenes showing suicide, cursing, violence, and death. https://www.kidsfirst.org/juror/blog/2025/star-trek-section-31/

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, debuted on Disney+ on January 29, 2025, KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and highly recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. This newseries focuses on the early life of Peter Parker. It is created in a classic comic book animation style, making it something old that new fans can enjoy. The music is perfectly in sync with the story at every crazy twist and turn in this fantastic return to form for the Spider-Man Universe. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/your-friendly-neighborhood-spider-man/

 Dog Man released in theatres on January 31, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that no matter how evil one can be, a little bit of love goes a long way. Dog Man is very successful in leading others to be more empathetic to those who might need extra care. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/dog-man/

Vietnam: The War That Changed America released on Apple TV+ on January 31, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This series really shows how the Vietnam War reshaped the United States in ways still felt today, from attitudes toward military intervention to the power of protest movements. https://www.kidsfirst.org/juror/blog/2025/vietnam-the-war-that-changed-america/

FEBRUARY

Captain America: Brave New World released in theaters on February 14, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film’s messageis to accept yourself for who you are now, and not how you were defined in the past or the people around you. Be forewarned that there is a lot of fighting throughout the film, all very over exaggerated and bloody at some points. Also, it contains mild profanity. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/captain-america-brave-new-world/

 Paddington in Perureleased in theaters on February 14, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The main themes are to embrace who you, it’s okay to have many places you call home, and you can have many people you call family. This movie includes positive messages around the dangers of greed and the importance of teamwork and putting family first. Note that there are some scenes of peril and some scary scenes in the forest. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/paddington-in-peru/

Win Or Lose premiered on Disney+ on February 19, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4.5 out of 5 stars, and recommends it for ages 5 to 12. The series’ message is that things aren’t always what they seem.  A simple game of softball may not seem like it has that much going on, but when seen from multiple and very different angles, we see that everything has another perspective. Note that it does contain some profanity, and a scene of stealing (real stealing, not bases in softball). https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/win-or-lose/

The Unbreakable Boy releases in theaters February 21, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 12. The film’s message is about being prepared for the unexpected, and to always remember that your friends and family are there to support you in times that are tough, even when you don't think you can handle the challenges that life throws at you. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/the-unbreakable-boy/
The Americas premiered on February 23, 2025 on NBC. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18 plus adults. The show’s message of is that we must be careful when we continue expanding land to make room for the incredible life that is flourishing all over the continent. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/the-americas/

A Sloth Story released in theaters on February 28, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. The film’s message is that family always has your back and believes in you when it matters most. Family can always see the spark in you and will stop at nothing to protect that. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/a-sloth-story/

MARCH

 Plankton: The Movie released on Netflix on March 7, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that love is all you really need. It has a fun storyline, fantastic voice acting, visually amusing graphics and a fun and happy atmosphere. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/plankton-the-movie/

The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Moviereleased in theaters on Friday, March 14, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that friendship conquers all. Daffy and Porky always stick together, no matter what challenges come their way. Note that that the show has some cartoon violence action and rude, suggestive humor. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/noah-live/

The Electric State released on Netflix on March 14, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film emphasizes the importance of family, and the importance of respecting everyone and everything. Be forewarned that there is some profanity and depictions of war. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/the-electric-state/

 Snow Whitereleased in theaters on March 21, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives this 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film’s themes are about bravery, kindness, and selflessness. Be aware that there are some mildly scary moments. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/snow-white/

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip released in theaters on March 28, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. The film’s message is that if bad luck is all you look for, then you’ll definitely find it – a positive mindset is everything. It also shows the importance of appreciating your heritage. Note that there are some dangerous stunts and some bad language. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/alexander-and-the-terrible-horrible-no-good/

The Penguin Lessons released in theaters on March 28, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives this 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that even when we are not geographically in our home, we can find a home wherever we are. Be forewarned that there is some profanity, kissing, and sexual references. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/the-penguin-lessons/

APRIL

The Amateur released in theaters on April 11, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars, and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. film’s message is that love makes people do crazy things, and one should never take something for granted. This film successfully motivated me to appreciate the small things in life and live in the moment. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/the-amateur/

The Legend of Ochireleased in theaters April 18, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is about family and the importance of connection with everyone, even those who seem different or misunderstood. This film does have some adult language, but other than that it was great! https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/the-legend-of-ochi/

Sea Lions of the Galapagos released on Disney+ on April 22, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18 plus adults. This documentary’s message is to always explore; there is always something out there to find, even for a sea lion.  Note that there are a few sightings of blood in this documentary. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/sea-lions-of-the-galapagos/

 Andor: Season 2 premiered on Disney Plus on April 22, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This show doesn't just offer adventure; it has important messages about courage, hope, and fighting for what's right. It reminds us that anyone, no matter how small or powerless they might feel, can make a difference if they stand up for what they believe in. There are some serious moments and battles that are pretty intense. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/andor-season-2/

MAY

Thunderbolts*released in theaters on May 2, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film's message is that everyone deserves a chance at redemption and everyone needs people who care about them in their corner. Thunderbolts* includes themes of camaraderie, the power of being different, and the damaging effects of loneliness. Note that it has many scary moments, including when characters are forced to relive traumatic moments from their lives. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/thunderbolts-marvel/

The Lightning Code released in theaters on May 9, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It carries a powerful message -- young people can lead big changes, especially when guided by integrity, teamwork, and curiosity. It promotes perseverance, critical thinking, and trust in the face of deception. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/the-lightning-code/

Greek Mothers Never Die released on VOD May 9, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. I really like this film and the way that it highlights the Greek experience. It’s over-the-top dramatic in such an exciting way! The film’s message is to never take love for granted, and always listen to your heart. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/greek-mothers-never-die/

Lilo and Stitchreleased in theaters on May 23, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages to 5 to 18, plus adults. The film’s big theme is about family. No matter how much trouble Lilo or Stitch cause, they stay as one big family with Nani. It also reminds us that it is okay to be different. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/lilo-stitch/

 Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning released in theaters on May 23, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that teamwork and determination can make the impossible possible. Be forewarned that there is some profanity, intense fighting scenes, very gruesome situations and death. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/mission-impossible-the-final-reckoning/

Karate Kid: Legends released in theaters on May 30, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film’s message is: when life knocks you down, remember to always get back up. This message is explored when Li confronts his past and doesn’t let that affect his future. Be forewarned that it has mild cursing and violence. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/karate-kid-legends/

JUNE

Book of Joshua: Walls of Jerichoreleased June 3, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18. The film’s message is to be strong when your faith is being tested. Beliefs are powerful and can lead you to finding your best life. Be forewarned that this show has a lot of violence and bloody scenes. There are also some hints at activities that are inappropriate for younger audiences. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/book-of-joshua-walls-of-jericho/

Phineas And Ferb: Season 5 released on Disney Channel and Disney XD on June 5, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. This season teaches us a few lessons. It teaches that love conquers all, and reminds us that with determination and focus you can do anything. Note that there is mild violence. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/phineas-and-ferb-season-5/

 How to Train Your Dragon released in theaters June 13, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18. The film’s message is about peace and kindness to all living creatures and, with a little understanding, we can make friends with the fiercest beasts. Be aware that the film has bright lights, jump scares and loud sounds that may be overwhelming for some. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/how-to-train-your-dragon/

Elioreleased in theaters on June 20, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it to ages 8 to 18. This film’s message is that you are never alone.  Though you may not get aliens asking for a play-date anytime soon, there is always someone there to talk with you, walk with you, and just be with you. Note that there are few scenes of space violence, and one where Elio is about to get beat up by a few kids from Earth. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/elio/

Into The Wonderwoods released on VOD beginning June 24, 2025.  KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 18. This is a heartwarming, exciting story that mixes adventure, magic, and friendship. It shows that even when things go wrong, we can find courage inside ourselves and maybe even discover a little wonder along the way. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/into-the-wonderwoods/

F1® The Movie released in theaters on June 27, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that without teamwork you cannot accomplish anything. Teamwork matters in car racing as you need to rely on your pit crew and other drivers to help you succeed. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/f1-the-movie/

JULY

Ironheart premiered on Disney+ on July 1, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The show’s message is to break yourself down in order to see what you're made of at the core. Everyone has the potential to be a hero. Be forewarned that this show has some violence and other content that is inappropriate for younger audiences. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/ironheart/

Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado released on Paramount Plus and Nickelodeon on July 2, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.  The film’s message is that teamwork and friendship can help you to achieve your goals. There are also themes of redemption and unconditional support, even when loved ones’ dreams differ from yours. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/dora-and-the-search-for-sol-dorado/

Jurassic World: Rebirth released in theaters on July 2, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. This is a solid ending to the franchise. The film’s message is to always do what’s right and not let selfishness take over. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/jurassic-world-rebirth/

Zombies 4: Dawn Of The Vampires released on Disney Channel and Disney Plus on July 10, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 18 plus adults.  This film teaches us about acceptance, identity, and unity. With all the characters we are reminded that our differences, whether cultural, personal, or even supernatural should be embraced, not feared. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/zombies-4-dawn-of-the-vampires/

 Superman released in theaters July 11, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that true strength lies not just in power, but in compassion, integrity, and the courage to do what’s right even when the world doubts you. Be aware that there is some profanity, smoking, and some intense bloody scenes. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/superman/

Smurfs released in theaters on July 18, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Make sure you check it out! The film’s message is that you do not have to conform to something you aren’t just to fit into a crowd – who you truly are, will shine through naturally. No Name is constantly trying new things to find a sense of belonging with his smurf friends who have already found their identities. However, he eventually realizes that his true identity was within him the entire time. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/smurfs/

Shari & Lamb Chop released in theaters on July 18, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is powerful: women can lead, innovate, and inspire, even in industries that underestimate them. It also reminds us of the value in treating children as intelligent and imaginative individuals, something Shari Lewis always believed in. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/shari-lamb-chop/

Fantastic Four: First Stepsreleased in theaters on July 25, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film includes themes like the power of motherly love, fighting for what’s right, and the need for a global community. Parents should be aware that the movie includes fight scenes and scenes where the Fantastic Four are in perilous situations, including when they are escaping Galactus. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/fantastic-four-first-steps/

Slumlord Millionaire released to VOD on July 29, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  This show reminded me to be more grateful for everything I have. This documentary not only honors and respects people who are struggling to make ends meet, but also plants a silent seed of gratitude in the audience’s mind. Please be advised that Slumlord Millionaire contains some profanity. https://www.kidsfirst.org/juror/blog/2025/slumlord-millionaire/

AUGUST

 The Bad Guys 2 released in theaters on August 1, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it gets 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is about change. The reformation of the Bad Guys proves that, with the right attitude and people, anyone can genuinely become their best self. The film contains some mild violence and profanity. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/the-bad-guys-2/

Freakier Friday released in theatres on August 8, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that one should never judge someone else until they have walked in their shoes and experienced what they have gone through. The movie is very successful in allowing a character to take a step back and see how other people have problems too. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/freakier-friday/

 Eyes Of Wakanda debuted in full on Disney+ on August 1, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that power can be a delicate thing. It includes themes of knowing wrong from right, loyalty, and being careful who you trust. Parents should know that it includes many scary moments, including when Noni is taken hostage.https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/eyes-of-wakanda/

Sketch released to theaters on August 6, 2025. KIDS FIRST! Give it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is a reminder that, while grieving is a universal experience, everyone processes it differently; healing is a unique journey. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/sketch/

Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical released on AppleTV+ on August 15, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 12. The film’s message is to cherish what you have, as you may not have it forever.  Charlie Brown and the gang have been coming to camp for as long as they can remember, and they know they have to leave it better than they found it if newcomers like Sally and her friends want to enjoy it in the future. https://www.kidsfirst.org/juror/blog/2025/snoopy-presents-a-summer-musical/

Ne Zha 2released in theaters on August 22, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars from recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that not everyone is all good or all bad. When we see other’s differences and celebrate them, then we can all become one team and defeat the real enemy. Note that there are some violent scenes that are inappropriate for younger children. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/ne-zha-2/
The Short Game released in theaters on August 29, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The story follows Jeremy Avery (Ben Krieger) who is trying to procure a golf scholarship, which is hampered when he is forced to look after his younger, autistic brother Ethan (Owen Himfar). The film’s message is to treat others with kindness since there's always more to a person. Be forewarned that there is some mild profanity, along with depictions of death and bullying.https://www.kidsfirst.org/juror/blog/2025/the-short-game/

S EPTEMBER

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finalereleased to theaters on September 12, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18. The film’s message is about keeping your head held high, and not care what others think of you. It also reminds us to value our family. Be aware that there are some references to more adult concepts, mild nudity, and substance usage. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/downton-abbey-the-grand-final/

NOAH-Live! released in theaters on September 18, 2025. KIDS FIRST! give it 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film reminds us to put faith into what we believe in but to be our own person rather than what other people tell us to be. Be forewarned that there is death within the film and some onstage fighting. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/noah-live/

Eleanor The Great released in theaters on September 26, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that life is valuable, and reminds us to take in everything, even the small things. Please be aware that this film does contain mentions of the Holocaust. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/eleanor-the-great/

 Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie released in theaters on September 26, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 2 to 12. This film is a reminder that growing up doesn’t have to mean giving up everything that brought you happiness as a child. Some things, like friendship, are forever. Playing make-believe was the way we learned, made sense of the world when we were little, and all of that is important to keep doing, no matter how old we get. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/gabbys-dollhouse-the-movie/

OCTOBER

The Sisters Grimm released on Apple TV+ beginning October 3, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. This show’s message is about the importance of family and friendship; and it reminds us not to lose ourselves in greed. Be forewarned that this series does have some mild violence but nothing too harsh. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/the-sisters-grimm/

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place Season 2premiered on Disney Plus on October 8, 2025.KIDS FIRST!  gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. The show reminds us that family, love, and responsibility are more powerful than magic alone. Being true to yourself, helping others, and working together can overcome even the toughest problems and real magic comes from caring, courage, and staying strong in your beliefs.  https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/wizards-beyond-waverly-place-season-2/

The Chosen Adventures released on Prime Video on October 17, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 12. The show’s message is that, in every situation, there is something you can learn.  Abby and Joshua go on many adventures and often end up in very surprising situations.  But in all they do, they learn some valuable life lessons that will be cherished and remembered for years to come. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/the-chosen-adventures/

Grow released in theaters on October 17, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 pumpkins and recommends it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. The film’s message is that nothing is impossible and, if you keep pushing for your dreams, you can make it to the top. It includes themes of love, friendship, and persistence. Parents should be warned that Grow includes some scenes with suspenseful moments. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/grow-a-heartwarming-story/

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever released on Blu-ray™ and DVD October 28, 2025.  KIDS FIRST! gives 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Kindness and inclusivity themes are woven throughout the movie. We are reminded that everyone deserves a chance for love and to not judge a book by its cover or people by how they look. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/the-best-christmas-pageant-ever/

Stitch Head released in theaters on October 29, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 12. The film’s message is to be true to yourself and confident in who you are. This is a great movie for families to go see together.
https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/stitch-head/

NOVEMBER

Sarah’s Oilreleased in theaters November 7, 2025. KIDS FIRST! give it 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it 8 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message focuses on trusting in your faith and having the strength to persevere through tough times. It is an inspiring message, reminding us that nothing good comes easy and that hard work always pays off. Note that there is some minor violence and profanity used. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/sarahs-oil/
A Very Jonas Christmas released on Disney+ and Hulu November 14, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film’s message is that family matters most, and showing a little bit of love to one’s family can usually patch past mistakes. https://www.kidsfirst.org/juror/blog/2025/a-very-jonas-christmas/
LEGO Marvel Avengers: Strange Tailsreleased on Disney+ on November 14, 2025.  KIDS FIRST! gives it 4 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 12. The film’s message is about how being famous or popular does not define how good of a person you are. We are also reminded how a lust for fame can corrupt someone. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/lego-marvel-avengers-strange-tails/

Jurassic World: Chaos Theory released on Netflix on November 20, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gave it 3 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 12. The main message is that, even in the toughest times, having friends by your side on the journey makes everything better. The show includes themes of friendship, love, and heartbreak. While mostly tame, parents should note that the show does include animated violence and intense moments, like when the team is attacked by a Tyrannosaurus Rex. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/jurassic-world-chaos-theory/

Wicked: For Good released in theaters on November 21, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. Wicked: For Good is a perfectly-timed reminder that no one person is responsible for the downfall of society; everyone has to contribute for all citizens to receive the support they need. Every voice must be heard; it is only when power is used wisely that acceptance can thrive and progress is made. It also highlights the resilience that true friendship takes to maintain.https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/wicked-for-good/

Zootopia 2 released in theaters November 26, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. The film’s message centers around the need to prove you belong. Whether it’s Judy and Nick proving their partnership, or Gary De’Snake showing that snakes aren’t the bad guys, the message of accepting others for who they are shines throughout the film. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/zootopia-2/

DECEMBER

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw released on Disney+ December 5, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 8 to 18. The main theme is the importance of integrity. Greg often puts his own needs before anything or everyone else’s and this comes at a cost. He lies about being student of the month and about getting suspended. Greg learns that this cannot substitute hard work and that it is best to be honest. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/diary-of-a-wimpy-kid-the-last-straw/

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 2 premiered on Disney+ on December 10, 2025, with the first two episodes available that day and the other six episodes rolled out weekly.  KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars recommends it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. This series is about courage, friendship, and staying true to yourself even when the odds are stacked against you. It shows that heroes aren’t defined by their powers alone, but by their choices, loyalty, and willingness to do what’s right. https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirstnews/2025/percy-jackson-and-the-olympians-season-2/

Avatar: Fire and Ash releases in theaters on December 19, 2025. KIDS FIRST! gives it 5 out of 5 stars and recommends it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film’s main message is that every day we have a choice, to do the right thing, or do the easy thing. As Jake Sully says, “Many arrows together cannot be broken.” Note that there is a lot of violence, but none of the shots highlight the gore.

What is the KIDS FIRST! Best Kid Films List?

These are films for kids between the ages of 2 and 18 that have universal appeal, exhibit outstanding attributes in terms of their production quality. They exhibit qualities that make them as applicable today as the day they were first released.  

We know that media has the power to influence children, negatively or positively. The films on this list portray the values and ethics that we, as a culture wish to instill in our children. The idea behind this list is to provide a parent or caregiver with as much information as possible about the age appropriateness of a film, a brief synopsis, the key artists involved and any special audience issues it may address. 

How can I become a Reviewer for KIDS FIRST! or a KIDS FIRST! Film Critic?

Kids ages 9 to 16 can join our KIDS FIRST! Film Critics. Adults and kids can join our KIDS FIRST! Reviewers. For more details, go to http://www.kidsfirst.org/become-a-juror. Or, call 505-989-8076.