Most Inspiring Kids Movies For Family Night
Often these days, we uncover shows empty of morals however bursting with language or violence. There’s so MUCH to watch on our streaming services. But not all of it gives the identical value.
Instead, use this list of inspirational movies for kids and teenagers to uplift and motivate them. To teach them to attain for the stars, be kind, and construct grit.
Let’s present kids that they CAN make the world a greater place.
That’s the kind of worth everybody will love on household night!
This post contains affiliate links, and we may earn a fee at free of charge to you. See our disclaimer for more.
These motivational kids movies have been carefully curated. They teach life classes whereas delivering a potent punch of inspiration.
Age suggestions are based on reviews at Common Sense Media, a nonprofit group that helps parents navigate media content. It is solely a guide. Use your personal judgement to decide if a film is appropriate for your family.
Table of Contents
55 Inspiring Movies for Kids & Students
Inspirational Animated Family Movies
First, these are the best movies for households and make for excellent choices for younger children.
1. Dr. Suess: The Lorax (2012)
Rated PG : Recommended Ages 5+
The Lorax tells the story of a 12 year old boy who’s attempting to win the love of a girl by discovering the Lorax. The Lorax is a mysterious creature who’s set on defending the world.
Takeaway Message: Everyone should take responsibility for themselves and their actions.
See the Lorax here >>
2. Encanto (2023)
Rated PG: Recommended Ages 6+
This is the beautiful story of a younger girl surrounded by expertise and magnificence in her family. While she feels like a nobody, it seems that she is the one one who can save the miracle that binds them.
Takeaway Message: The miracle is not some magic that you’ve got. It’s you. All of you.
See Encanto here >>
3. Finding Nemo (2003)
Rated G : Recommended Ages 5+
Finding Nemo is the story of a small fish wanting to journey into the big beautiful ocean. His terrified father, having suffered earlier loss, ventures out to save his son.
Takeaway Message: Life is gorgeous when you cease attempting to management everything and just trust.
See Finding Nemo here >>
4. Inside Out (2015)
Rated PG – Recommended Ages 6+
Follow Riley as she manages the bumpy road of rising up. Everything is fine till she strikes away from her childhood home. Guided by her emotions–Joy, Anger, Disgust, Fear and Sadness–they’ll (try to) assist her adjust to this new life.
Your emotions exist and deserve to be acknowledged (all of them).
See Inside Out here >>
5. Zootopia (2016)
Rated PG – Recommended Ages 8+
Judy Hopps is a bunny rabbit from the small metropolis of Bunnyburrow. All she desires to be is a big metropolis police officer. But prejudices are everywhere. Follow as Judy finds herself on the biggest case, with a sly fox as her partner.
You can be something if you’re employed hard and don’t quit when obstacles block your way.
“Life’s a little bit messy. We all make mistakes. No matter what type of animal you are, change begins with you.”
Watch Zootopia here >>
6. Up (Inspiring Kids Movies 2009)
Rated PG – Recommended Ages 6+
Carl Fredricksen is prepared for his final adventure. He ties thousands of balloons to his home and makes his way to Angel Falls. But his plans are disrupted by a pleasant Wilderness Explorer, Russell.
Sometimes life’s biggest adventures are not always these you’re looking for.
See Up right here >>
7. The Lion King (1994)
Rated G: Recommended Ages 6+
Simba, a younger lion is inheritor to the throne of his father, Mufasa. But when Mufasa’s evil brother murders the king, Simba is forced to run away from everything. He’ll meet new friends and uncover that you can’t run away from the past.
You have to face your issues head on.
See The Lion King right here >>
8. Frozen (2013)
Rated PG: Recommended Ages 5+
This tremendous popular Disney film has two princesses. And one who has a magical power! With amazing animation and catchy songs this will be on repeat.
Sibling love is a highly effective type of true love. What makes you different makes you special.
Watch Frozen here >>
9. Trolls (2016)
Rated PG – Recommended Ages 6+
When the Bergens come and take their troll village, two unlikely companions embark on a journey to save them from being eaten.
Happiness is found inside of you.
See Trolls here >>
10. Storks (2016)
Rated PG – Recommended Ages 6+
In this movie, storks no longer ship babies. Instead, they ship packages for a global web company. But when an order for a child appears, the best supply stork embarks on a brand new journey to repair the error.
Family drives you crazy, however they make life most meaningful.
See Storks right here >>
11. Sing (2016)
Rated PG – Recommended Ages 7+
Koala Buster Moon is in hazard of losing his old grand theater. But then, he has an idea. He takes one final leap to revive the theater by holding a singing competition. Five very different contestants emerge, and the story follows every one as they struggle and ultimately discover their groove.
Don’t let others inform you what you can and can’t do.
“Don’t let fear cease you from doing the factor you love.”
Watch Sing here >>
More Inspirational Movies For Kids & Families
If your kids are older and like non animation, these are good inspiring movies.
12. Miracles from Heaven (2016)
Rated PG – Recommended Ages 10+
After a close to deadly accident, Anna is healed by a miracle. She tells her household about her expertise from heaven. Despite household and friend reactions she stays true to her faith.
Love, religion and household are highly effective healers.
See the film right here >>
13. Babe (1995)
*Oscar winner* Rated G- Recommended Ages 6+
Babe is about a little piglet who arrives at a brand new farm. He meets the pleasant farmer and barnyard friends. He is taken in by the border collie and her pups and begins to think he’s a shepherd dog!
You can be something you want to be.
See Babe here >>
14. Annie (2014)
Rated PG – Recommended Ages 7+
Young orphan Annie escapes her manipulative caretaker. She charms her way into the lifetime of a New York tycoon, who doesn’t have such a stone coronary heart after all.
Where you come from doesn’t decide the place you’re going. Hope and optimism can be life savers.
See Annie here >>
15. Evan Almighty (2007)
Rated PG – Recommended Ages 8+
A enjoyable household film that follows ordinary Evan who’s given an extraordinary task. Can it be done with out losing his family, profession and social standing?
One person can change the world with faith, perseverance and self sacrifice.
Watch Evan Almighty here >>
Motivational Sports Movies for Kids
These inspirational kids movies are excellent for younger athletes. Even kids who’re not in sports activities will profit from the themes of by no means giving up, believing in yourself, and dealing as a team.
16. Remember the Titans (2000)
Rated PG – Ages 10+
Remember the Titans is a celebration of two coaches. It is about a team and community overcoming their variations as they flip younger males into champions.
Working collectively can result in success. Changing our views can change the world.
See Remember the Titans here >>
17. The Rookie (2002)
Rated G – Ages 7+
A highschool baseball coach will get a second chance when he will get called to the minor leagues. He’ll have to beat his age, lacking his family, and his personal doubts to obtain his dream of being a skilled baseball player.
It’s by no means too late to follow your dreams
Watch the Rookie here >>
18. Invincible (2006)
Rated PG – Ages 10+
Based on the true story of Vince Papale, a 30 one factor bartender with no soccer experience. He will get the chance to check out for the Philadelphia Eagles soccer team. Then, he proves to the coaches and teammates what a valuable participant he can be.
You can do something when you believe in yourself
See Invincible here >>
19. Cool Runnings (1993)
Rated PG – Ages 8+
Inspired by precise events, Cool Runnings is the story of unlikely teammates working collectively to become the primary Jamaican bobsled team to go to the Olympics (despite by no means seeing snow before!).
You’ll always be a winner if you try your best and by no means give up.
“Feel the rhythm! Feel the rhyme! Get on up, it’s bobsled time! Cool runnings!”
Watch Cool Runnings here >>
20. American Underdog (2023)
Rated PG – Ages 10+
American Underdog is a biographical film based on the lifetime of Kurt Warner. The film follows his journey from an undrafted participant to a Super Bowl champion.
Be cautious what you let outline you. And what looks like failure may simply be a stepping stone. (JosephLalonde)
See American Underdog here >>
Looking for extra inspiring kids sports activities movies? Don’t miss classics like Little Giants, A League of Their Own, and Rudy as well!
Inspirational Kids Movies Overcoming Challenges
Everyone finds obstacles on their journey through life. These inspirational kids movies assist teach kids that it’s all about the way you react to them. Courage, bravery, and accepting your self present up repeatedly in these films.
21. Soul Surfer (2011)
Rated PG – Ages 10+
Inspired by true events, Soul Surfer highlights the story of Bethany Hamilton, a younger aggressive surfer who loses her arm in a shark attack. Rather than giving up, she is decided to learn to surf again.
Tragedy doesn’t have to cease your life. Never give up.
See Soul Surfer here >>
22. Frozen 2 (2023)
Rated PG – Ages 6+
Elsa and Anna are back. And now they should discover out why the forest spirits are calling to Elsa. Yet, unraveling the secrets and techniques of Elsa’s magic prices greater than they realized. Can they save Arendelle with out losing their household within the process?
“All one can do is the subsequent proper thing.”
See Frozen 2 here >>
23. Spider-Man: Into the Spider Verse (2023)
Rated PG – Ages 9+
The coming of age story and the story of how Miles Morales turns into Spiderman. Discover different characters of the spiderman verse as they attempt to cease evil villains.
Relying on others is not a disadvantage. Overcoming adversity is what makes you a hero.
Watch Spider-Man here >>
24. Big Hero 6 (2014)
Rated PG – Ages 7+
Robotics prodigy Hiro is launched to his brother’s new “friend” Baymax, a robotic whose purpose is to assist people. A devastating flip of occasions throws Hiro and Baymax into the center of a harmful situation.
The support of your loved ones and friends can assist you get through life’s hardships.
See Big Hero 6 here >>
25. The Karate Kid (1984)
Rated PG – Ages 11+
Daniel LaRusso strikes to a brand new metropolis and turns into the goal of bullies. With the assistance of an unlikely ally, he learns karate and faces his enemies.
Falling down is not failing if you get again up.
See Karate Kid here >>
26. The Greatest Showman (2017)
Rated PG – Ages 10+
This film is based on the lifetime of P.T. Barnum, the well-known entertainer who created Barnum and Bailey circus. In it, Barnum rises from nothing to create one of many greatest shows on earth.
You aren’t what you were born into. Create a imaginative and prescient for yourself and know the place you want to go.
“No one ever made a distinction by being like everybody else.”
Watch the Greatest Showman here >>
Inspiring Being Who You Were Meant to Be Movies
These inspirational movies for kids even have hardships and bravery, however they center on how important it’s to listen to your personal inner voice.
27. Kung Fu Panda (2008)
Rated PG – Ages 6+
Po is a panda who works at his father’s noodle shop. But he dreams of being a Kung Fu fighter. One day, when the village hosts a tournament for the subsequent Dragon Warrior, Po’s life changes forever.
It is okay to be you and to do issues in your personal way. (And you don’t have to be superior to others to do it.)
See Kung Fu Panda here >>
28. Mulan (1998)
Rated G – Ages 5+
A younger woman disguises herself as a male warrior so as to take the place of her aged father within the army. She should learn to be courageous so as to defeat the enemy.
Being your self is being brave.
Watch Mulan here >>
29. Coco (Inspirational Kids Movies 2017)
Rated PG – Recommended Ages 7+
The story follows a 12-year-old boy named Miguel who loves music, however lives in a household the place it’s banned. Everything changes when he’s accidentally transported to the Land of the Dead. There he will get assist from his deceased great-great-grandfather so as that he may return home.
Believe in your dreams sufficient to grab the moment.
See Coco here >>
30. Moana (2016)
Rated PG – Recommended Ages 6+
In this story, the chief’s daughter should return the coronary heart of Te Fiti to save her people. Along her journey, she meets Maui, an arrogant demi-God she should persuade to assist her.
Never give up on your self and what your coronary heart is telling you.
See Moana here >>
Looking for extra inspiring movies for girls? Try Brave. It’s about the daughter of a Scottish king and queen who dreams of carving her personal path.
31. Ferdinand (2017)
Rated PG – Ages 6+
Ferdinand isn’t simply like the opposite bulls. Instead of being tough, he’s a pacifist who loves flowers.
Ferdinand escapes and is adopted by a family, however eventually returns to the old bullfighting training. There he saves others from the slaughterhouse and eventually finally ends up within the ring himself.
It’s okay to be different than these round you.
Watch Ferdinand here >>
Inspiring Kids Movies to Teach Kindness
Next, these inspirational kids movies discover the themes of empathy and compassion.
32. How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
Rated PG – Ages 7+
A younger Viking who’s meant to hunt down dragons to guard his community turns into unlikely friends with a Night Fury dragon. The unlikely duo start a friendship that opens up new worlds.
Accepting our variations can bring us nearer together.
See this film here >>
33. Wonder (2017)
Rated PG – Ages 10+
Based on the best promoting novel, Wonder, the film follows the story of a younger boy with facial differences. As he begins fifth grade at a brand new school, he’ll have to beat stigmas and teach others to look past their differences.
Kindness can change lives.
See Wonder here >>
34. Raya and the Last Dragon (2023)
Rated PG – Ages 7+
Raya is in search of the final dragon to reverse a 500 year old curse that has destroyed the land and divided the people. Along the journey she’ll meet new characters and face unexpected challenges.
Trust in others and forgiving the previous can result in a bright future.
Watch this film here >>
35. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
Rated PG – Ages 7+
A younger boy discovers a gentle hearted alien and decides to maintain him in his home. With the assistance of his siblings, he should keep E.T safe and undiscovered earlier than the worst happens.
Be kind to these that want it most.
See E.T. here >>
36. Holes
*Based on the novel! Rated PG – Ages 9+
Meet Stanley Yelnats, a boy who has had a string of bad luck and finally ends up at Camp Green Lake. There he should dig holes within the dried up lake with the opposite campmates to maintain the warden happy.
But why the holes? And why the secrecy?
Helping others can change lives.
See Holes here >>
37. A Wrinkle in Time (2023)
Rated PG – Ages 10+
Meg and her brother Charles have been lacking their father for 5 years. Along with their classmate Calvin, the three journey to a harmful and evil planet to get him back.
Even when somebody isn’t good to you, you don’t know what others are going through. Being kind is the proper factor to do.
“Nothing is hopeless; we should hope for everything.”
Watch A Wrinkle In Time here >>
*These kids kindness books teach much extra about compassion and friendship.
Knowledge is Power Motivational Kids Movies
The following inspirational movies for kids drive home the significance of learning. They discover the half knowledge can play in overcoming obstacles and fulfilling your potential.
38. Queen of Katwe (2016)
Rated PG – Ages 10+
The Queen of Katwe is about the true story of a girl living in Uganda. Her world changes drastically after being launched to Chess. Her eventual success with the sport opens doorways to an entirely new future.
You belong the place you think you belong, so get out of your consolation zone and dream big.
See Queen of Katwe here >>
39. Hidden Figures (2016)
Rated PG – Ages 10+
“Hidden Figures tells the incredible true story of three brilliant African American women working at NASA who served because the brains behind the launch into orbit of astronaut John Glenn, a stunning achievement that turned into the Space Race.
The visionary trio crossed all gender and racial lines that impressed generations.”
Intelligence and determination can break barriers.
Watch Hidden Figures here >>
40. Matilda (Inspirational Kids Movies 1996)
Rated PG – Ages 9+
*A new remake on Netflix 2023!
Matilda is misunderstood by her personal household and evil school principal. She makes use of her mind and newly found magical powers to be brave. With the assistance of her ally and loving teacher, Matilda learns that you don’t have to be imply in a imply world.
What makes you different makes you special.
See Matilda here >>
41. Akeelah and the Bee (2006)
Rated PG – Ages 8+
An inspirational household film that follows Akeelah, a younger girl from a tough neighborhood. She overcomes challenges to make her way to the National Spelling Bee.
It’s okay to be smart and excel regardless of your surroundings.
See Akeelah and the Bee here (great for motivating students!) >>
42. Meet the Robinsons (2007)
Rated G – Ages 7+
A enjoyable Disney film about a 12 year old orphan with a brilliant scientific mind. He creates a tool to talk with his birth mother. Then, throughout the science fair (to present his device) he meets the mysterious Mr. Robinson…
Knowledge of the previous is important however hope for the future is how we change the world.
“Unlocking the secrets and techniques of the mind took a lot longer than I expected.”
Watch Meet the Robinsons here >>
*Love these inspiring movies? See the inspiring kids books list too!
Inspirational Movies for Tweens & Teens
Next, these motivational kids movies are perfect for center school and highschool college students or watching as a family.
43. The Impossible (2012)
*One of my favourite movies! Rated PG-13 – Ages 14+
Based on a precise story, The Impossible follows a household fighting for his or her lives throughout the 2004 tsunami.
The strength of your loved ones can get you thru anything.
See The Impossible here >>
44. The Blind Side (2009)
Rated PG-13 – Ages 11+
Inspired by the true story of Michael Oher. He was a younger homeless excessive schooler who was taken in by a kind woman and her family. He became an All American soccer participant and first spherical NFL draft pick.
Your previous doesn’t outline you. The support and love of your loved ones (even if you’re not related) can change your life.
See the Blind Side here >>
45. Freedom Writers (2007)
Rated PG-13 – Ages 13+
Based on the Freedom Writers Diary, the film follows a teacher who inspires her at-risk college students to believe in themselves and pursue higher education regardless of their background, circumstances and social expectations.
One person could make a difference. Education can take you locations you by no means dreamed of.
See Freedom Writers here >>
46. October Sky (1999)
Rated PG – Ages 10+
Inspired by a precise story, Homer Hickman is a teenage boy with dreams of pursuing a profession in rocketry. Despite his home life, he learns to shoot for the stars.
Pursuing your goals will not always be easy, however it will be worth it.
Watch October Sky here >>
47. McFarland USA (2015)
Rated PG – Ages 10+
A highschool soccer coach loses his job and should learn to lead a brand new team of cross nation runners. These younger males should overcome social, economic, and private challenges to become the best cross nation team within the region.
Perseverance, work ethic, and dedication can flip you proper into a champion.
See McFarland USA here >>
48. Unbroken (2014)
Rated PG-13 – Ages 14+
Based on the incredible true story of Olympian Louis Zamperini!
During WWII, Louis survives a plane crash solely to be stranded within the ocean for forty seven days. His life continues to take detours even after, and it’s unsure whether or not he’ll survive.
Never give up. Be courageous and resilient in times of hardships.
See Unbroken here >>
49. Pay It Forward (2000)
Rated PG-13 – Ages 14+
After being challenged by his school teacher, a younger boy comes up with an concept that could change the world. But it’s simpler said than done.
Kindness CAN change the world.
Watch Pay it Forward here >>
50. The Theory of Everything (2014)
Rated PG-13 – Ages 14+
This film particulars the lifetime of famed physicist Stephen Hawking. It follows his skilled challenges and triumphs however additionally his household life and battling ALS.
Be curious. No matter how difficult life becomes, there is always one factor to learn and do.
See The Theory of Everything here >>
51. The Martian (2015) – Top Inspirational Movie For Teens
Rated PG-13 – Ages 12+
When an astronaut turns into stranded on Mars his team assumes he’s dead. Now, he should use his ingenuity and the resources he has left to survive.
Stay grounded and resilient within the face of crisis.
They say when you develop crops somewhere, you have formally colonized it. So, technically, I colonized Mars. In your face, Neil Armstrong!
See the Martian here >>
*For extra good household night movies, see these kids books that were turned into movies.
More True Story Movies For Kids
Next, these inspirational kids and teenage movies are additionally precise life events.
52. Dolphin Tale (2011)
Rated PG – Ages 6+
This film was impressed by the true story of a dolphin who misplaced her tail after becoming entangled within the rope of a crab trap. She was rescued off the shore of Florida and fitted with a prosthetic tail.
Family isn’t simply blood. You select who your loved ones is.
See Dolphin Tale here >>
53. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Rated PG-13 – Ages 11+
The film is impressed by the true story of Chris Gardner. He was a struggling salesman attempting to construct a future for himself and his son. Through all of the obstacles, collectively with living homeless for a interval of time, Chris was able to rise above and become a Wall Street legend.
Have grit. When the going will get tough, you should keep going.
See this film here >>
54. The Upside (2023)
PG-13 – Ages 14+
This is a humorous movie’s tackle a precise story friendship between a rich quadriplegic and an unemployed man with a criminal past.
People deserve second chances.
Watch The Upside here >>
55. Everest (2015)
Rated PG-13 – Ages 12+
Everest is based on the precise life catastrophe in 1996. It journeys through two separate team survival makes an attempt and the occasions that took place.
Prepare to the higher of your ability. Use common sense. And keep flexible.
See Everest here >>
Movie Series That Are Inspiring To Older Kids
While that’s the list for particular person movies, these film series are additionally inspiring to kids. They offer extra good classes about life, from taking dangers to doing the proper thing.
Star Wars
Lord of the Rings
Harry Potter
Hunger Games
To Consider With Motivational Movies For Kids
I hope you loved this big list and located a few new movies to take a look at with your family.
Which inspirational movies for kids do you love most? Leave a remark and let me know!
More good household night content material for kids…
- Good Trivia Questions For Teens
- 30 Family Bonding Activities & Games
- How Well Do You Know Me Questions Quiz