Children love Halloween! Some Halloween movies like “Ghostbusters” are classics that everyone should should eventually see. I hope the reviews below will help caregivers determine what are the appropriate Halloween movies to watch with the children in their care.
Ages 9+
Hocus Pocus is one of the best Halloween movies of all time but parents have to determine whether or not some of the more “adult” themes in the classic flick put it outside of the kid-friendly range — specifically for younger viewers. Most of the movie’s violence is comical but it’s definitely not appropriate for preschoolers or young children because the plot includes witches sucking the souls out of children.
Ages 11+
The original Ghostbusters movie is one of the best movies of all times. Uproarious and occasionally racy, the humor in this action-packed ‘80s flick has stood the test of time. The narrative focuses on heroic battles against paranormal forces but the stylized poltergeists are far from frightful, so chances are the story won’t give big kids bad dreams. The sequels are great as well.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
Ages 7+
Equal parts romantic and dark, this film is kid-friendly Tim Burton at its best. Even the younger ones can enjoy the stop-motion animated magic. Just be aware that the smallest and most sensitive kids might be spooked by the bug-filled ‘Oogie Boogie’ and some of the stylized imagery in general.
Ages 10+
The Addams Family is a classic Halloween movie selection everyone must see. The dark comedy and gothic themes is great for children 10 and up and adults. While there may not be any gory scenes that will keep them up at night, younger kids and toddlers may not get on board with the adult humor and more morbid elements.
Ages 4+
Based on a children’s book by Joe Trolano, Spookley’s story is highly relatable because it’s about just wanting to fit in. Don’t worry though, Spookley the square-shaped pumpkin learns that it’s okay to be different. At 45 minutes, this animated film is short enough for little kids to enjoy (rather than simply turning into screen zombies) and although the musical narrative is quirky, the scares — apart from one encounter with a bad storm that may rattle very young viewers — are practically non-existent.
Ages 8+
Young Christina Ricci and her animated ghost buddy Casper make a fine pair in this humorous and only moderately spooky film. Parents should know this motion picture about a friendly ghost has stood the test of time, but the focus on death (along with some language and bullying) makes for a viewing experience that’s best-suited for a tween audience.
Pooh’s Heffalump Halloween Movie
Ages 3+
Like all things Winnie the Pooh, this Halloween special is sugar-coated and entirely innocent. Full of festive fun and easy to watch with even the youngest in your brood, rent this guy when you’re looking for a seasonal pick that doesn’t scare or disrupt the bedtime routine.
Ages 6+
Scooby-Doo and Shaggy’s favorite holiday is upon us! With fake monsters and candy galore – Halloween is heaven for these hungry foodies going door-to-door. But, this year, their sweet holiday turns sour when the neighborhood pumpkin patch is infected by toxic ooze, creating high-flying jack-o-lanterns, and a king-sized pumpkin leader squashing everything in its path. It’s up to Scooby-Doo and the gang as they team up with their pals, Bill Nye The Science Guy and Elvira Mistress of the Dark, to solve this mystery of gigantic proportions and save Crystal Cove!
Curious George: A Halloween Boo Fest and Spooky Fun
Ages 3+
In “A Halloween Boo Fest” autumn is here, bringing colorful leaves, hay rides, pumpkin patches, and the annual Boo Festival. After hearing about a legendary scarecrow who steals hats, the inquisitive monkey and his friends set out to find him. By the time George gets to the festival, he realizes that it’s not always easy to pick the perfect pumpkin and that winning the prize for best costume may be as difficult as catching the mysterious scarecrow.
In “Spooky Fun” tag along with Curious George on his spooky fun adventures. In this six-episode collection, everyone’s favourite monkey conquers his fear of the dark, helps a lost baby possum find his way home, investigates mysterious nighttime noises and much more.
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