With Christmas Day fast approaching, families across the UK are searching for the perfect festive entertainment that will captivate viewers of all ages, especially the youngest members of the household. While a host of new seasonal movies have arrived on streaming platforms, many are not ideally suited for a toddler or child's sensitive eyes. This guide highlights the very best Christmas films for children, detailing where you can find them for a magical viewing experience.
Timeless Animated Classics
Some festive stories have earned their status as perennial favourites, charming generation after generation. The Snowman, the iconic 1980s fantasy animation, remains a magical watch. It tells the enchanting tale of a young boy whose snowman miraculously comes to life, leading him on an extraordinary nocturnal adventure. The late music legend David Bowie introduces the film, adding to its unique appeal. This classic is available to stream on Channel 4's All4 service.
Another beloved animation is A Charlie Brown Christmas, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. The story follows Charlie Brown, who feels disheartened by the commercialisation of the season. His quest to discover the true meaning of Christmas by directing a school nativity play leads him to a heartfelt conclusion about love and tradition. You can watch this timeless special on Apple TV.
Modern Favourites & Family Adventures
Newer films have quickly cemented their place as holiday essentials. The Oscar-nominated Klaus on Netflix offers a beautiful origin story for Santa Claus. It follows a spoiled postman, Jesper, who is exiled to a grim town and forms an unlikely partnership with a reclusive toymaker named Klaus, sparking joy and a new tradition.
For a thrilling festive ride, The Polar Express remains a top pick. Featuring the voice of Tom Hanks, this animated adventure follows a doubting young boy who boards a magical train to the North Pole, where he learns about belief and friendship. The film is available to rent or buy on Prime Video, or stream via Sky Go or NOW.
The hilarious and heartwarming Arthur Christmas, starring the voices of James McAvoy and Bill Nighy, answers the question of how Santa delivers all those presents in one night. It focuses on Santa's well-meaning son, Arthur, who embarks on a frantic mission to deliver a missed gift before dawn. Catch it on Prime Video, Sky Go, or NOW.
Beloved Characters in Festive Form
Children love seeing their favourite characters in Christmas settings. Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas on Disney+ is a delightful anthology featuring three separate stories about holiday spirit, starring Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and the whole gang.
Widely considered one of the greatest Christmas films ever made, The Muppet Christmas Carol brilliantly adapts Charles Dickens's classic tale. With Michael Caine playing the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge alongside Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the entire Muppet crew, it's a funny and touching film for all ages, available on Disney+.
This selection ensures that every family can find the perfect film to spark joy and create lasting Christmas memories with their little ones, from toddlers to older children.
