When choosing movies for a 4-year-old, it’s important to consider their age appropriateness, engaging content and positive messages. 4-year-olds are just out of the range of being considered toddlers and are in an entirely new age-bracket. It is even recommended by Common Sense Media for children to be at least three or four years old before being taken to a movie theater. Here are some popular movies that are generally suitable for 4-year-olds:
1. “Toy Story” series: These heartwarming animated films follow the adventures of toys that come to life when humans aren’t around. Through the adventures of Woody and Buzz Lightyear - along with the rest of their toy friends - the films teach lessons about the importance of friendship, loyalty and teamwork. Pixar’s classic “Toy Story” franchise has some of the best movies to entertain children and to spark imagination in their minds when playing with their own toys.
2. “Finding Nemo” (2003) and “Finding Dory” (2016): Venture under the sea and journey along with a clownfish named Marlin as he travels across the ocean, searching for his lost son, Nemo. Then, in the sequel, watch as the humorous, forgetful sidekick, Dory, seeks out her own parents, who she lost long ago. These Pixar movies are colorful and entertaining, taking children on underwater adventures while conveying messages of family, bravery and perseverance.
3. “Moana” (2016): This Disney animated film tells the tale of a brave young girl, Moana, who sets out on a journey to save her tribe and island home. Through the lessons she learns, adventures she has and characters she meets along the way, Moana ultimately finds what she wants for herself along with her own place in the world and among her people. It features beautiful animation, catchy songs and themes of courage and self-discovery.
4. “Zootopia” (2016): In this Disney animated film, a rookie bunny cop teams up with a sly fox to solve a mystery that threatens the safety and stability of the large metropolis city of Zootopia. The pair make discoveries about themselves and what it is like to be in the other’s shoes. It promotes the values of tolerance, equality and pursuing dreams when the odds are stacked against you.
5. “The Lion King” (1994): A classic Disney movie, “The Lion King” portrays a young lion’s journey of returning home to reclaim his kingdom after fleeing in the face of tragedy. The film highlights themes of family, responsibility and bravery as the young lion, Simba, stands up and fights for what he knows is right.
6. “Coco” (2017): This Pixar film takes viewers on a magical journey through the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) festival in Mexico as a young boy, Miguel, is transported to the Land of the Dead and must seek out his ancestors’ help in finding his way back home. This vibrant movie is full of life and is a celebration of family, heritage and the power of music.
7. “Frozen” (2013) and “Frozen 2” (2019): These Disney movies feature memorable music, enchanting, magical visuals and teach lessons about love, family and self-acceptance. They also center around the sisterly bond shared between Elsa and Anna that are only strengthened by the end of each film. Though, be prepared to have the songs stuck in your head long after the credits roll as your child will surely be singing them all over and over again.
8. “Paddington” series: Paddington Bear has been an iconic character of children’s literature since his first appearance in the late 1950s. Since then, Paddington has appeared on television through live-readings of his stories, stop-motion and two-dimensional animated series and appearing alongside other classic animal characters in TV specials. These movies, “Paddington” (2014) and “Paddington 2” (2017) follow the adventures of the kind-hearted bear as he navigates life in London in his red hat and navy-blue duffel coat. The films emphasize the importance of kindness, acceptance and helping others around you.
Remember, every child is different, so parental guidance is always recommended to ensure the film’s suitability for your kid’s specific sensitivities and preferences.