When winter arrives with its snow and cold it can only mean one thing…indoor recess! My students loved to play with games and toys during this time, but every once in a while we enjoyed a little movie time. It gave the kids a chance to unwind and relax and it was the perfect time for me to get a few papers graded! So whether you're looking for a quick 30-minute movie or a full-length feature film for your family movie night, I have you covered with this list of the best winter movies for kids!
Best Winter Movies For Kids Under 30 Minutes
1. The Snowman
Rated – Not rated
Available on – YouTube, Amazon Prime
Run time: 26 minutes
If you're looking for good movie ideas for indoor recess time, this is a great choice! In this shorter animated short film, a young boy builds a snowman that magically comes to life on Christmas Eve. The two embark on a magical and whimsical adventure, soaring through the wintry night sky to the North Pole and joining a festive party of snowmen. The silent charm and captivating animation of “The Snowman” make it a timeless and heartwarming classic that captures the joy and wonder of the holiday season.
2. Trolls Holiday
Rated – Not rated
Available on – Hulu, Amazon Prime
Run time: 26 minutes
In the colorful and musical world of the Trolls, Queen Poppy seeks to unite the Troll tribes by introducing them to different holiday traditions. As the Trolls celebrate together, they learn the value of diversity and the joy of sharing their unique customs. “Trolls Holiday” is a vibrant and festive special that celebrates the spirit of togetherness, friendship, and embracing differences.
3. Olaf's Frozen Adventure
Rated; Not rated
Available on: Disney+
Run time: 22 minutes
Olaf, the lovable snowman, embarks on a festive quest to discover holiday traditions for his friends Elsa and Anna. Along the way, he encounters various customs and heartwarming moments, emphasizing the importance of family and creating cherished memories during the holiday season. “Olaf's Frozen Adventure” is a delightful and musical addition to the Frozen universe, capturing the spirit of winter festivities. If you're short on time, this is one of the best winter movies for kids.
4. Frosty The Snowman
Rated: Not rated
Available on: Amazon Prime
Run time: 25 minutes
A magical snowman comes to life when a hat is placed on his head, and he quickly befriends a group of children. The kids embark on a lighthearted adventure to the North Pole to save Frosty from melting. Narrated by Jimmy Durante, “Frosty the Snowman” is one of the best-animated feature films and a timeless classic that has charmed audiences for generations with its festive spirit and catchy theme song.
5. Stick Man
Rated: Not rated
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime
Run time: 27 minutes
Based on the beloved children's book by Julia Donaldson, “Stick Man” tells the heartwarming story of a stick who embarks on an epic journey after being separated from his stick family. Along the way, Stick Man encounters various challenges, including becoming a vital part of Christmas traditions. With a mix of humor, adventure, and heartwarming moments, “Stick Man” is a charming animated film that celebrates the importance of family and the resilience of the human (or stick) spirit.
6. Frosty's Winter Wonderland
Rated: Not rated
Available on: Amazon Prime
Run time: 25 minutes
In this animated holiday classic, the magical snowman Frosty returns for another enchanting adventure. When a lonely winter magician creates a snow wife for Frosty named Crystal, the two embark on a heartwarming journey to the North Pole to keep Frosty from melting. Filled with festive cheer, charming characters, and memorable songs, “Frosty's Winter Wonderland” is a delightful addition to the Frosty the Snowman series, capturing the joy and magic of the holiday season and one of the great winter movies for kids. We loved watching this movie when we wrote about how to build a snowman.
7. The First Snow Of Winter
Rated: Not rated
Available on: Amazon Prime
Run time: 25 minutes
In “The First Snow of Winter,” a young duck named Sean is left behind when his family migrates for the winter. Determined to catch up with them, Sean embarks on a perilous journey, encountering various characters and learning valuable life lessons along the way. This heartwarming animated film explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the beauty of the changing seasons, making it a delightful watch for families during the winter months.
Looking for a way to ease the winter blues? Take your kids on an adventure to the Snowman Village! These companion activities to the book Snowmen At Work by Caralyn Buehner are the perfect way to spend the day! Kids will love visiting 8 different math and literacy stations and trying out snowman jobs!
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Best Winter Movies For Kids Over 30 Minutes
8. Happy Feet
Rated – PG
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime
Run time: 108 minutes
If cold weather has you down, Happy Feet will cheer you up! In the icy world of Emperor Penguins, Mumble is born with a talent unlike any other—he can tap dance! As he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, Mumble learns about acceptance, friendship, and the importance of being true to oneself. “Happy Feet” is a visually dazzling animated film that combines music, dance, and heartwarming storytelling. It will become one of your favorite winter movies for kids!
9. Cool Runnings
Rated – PG
Available on: Disney+
Run time: 98 minutes
Inspired by the true story of the Jamaican national bobsleigh team, “Cool Runnings” follows a group of unlikely athletes as they overcome adversity and stereotypes to compete in the Winter Olympics, bringing humor and heart to the chilly sport of bobsledding. If you like winter sports, this is a great movie that the whole family will enjoy!
10. Frozen
Rated – PG
Available on – Disney+
Run time: 102 minutes
Frozen is one of our favorite winter movies for kids! In the kingdom of Arendelle, Elsa, the Snow Queen, accidentally traps the land in eternal winter due to her magical ice powers. Her fearless sister Anna, along with the ice harvester Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, and Olaf the snowman, embark on a journey to find Elsa in the mountains. As they face challenges and discover the true nature of Elsa's powers, the bond between the sisters and the importance of love thaw the frozen heart of the kingdom. “Frozen” is a great film that weaves themes of self-acceptance, sisterhood, and the power of love into a magical winter tale. Your students will love the original songs and will be singing Let It Go over and over!
11. Ice Age
Rated – PG
Available on: Disney+, Hulu
Run time: 81 minutes
Set in the prehistoric era, “Ice Age” follows the unlikely alliance of Manny the woolly mammoth, Sid the talkative sloth, and Diego the cunning saber-toothed tiger. When the trio discovers a human baby and decides to return it to its family, they embark on a perilous journey through icy landscapes and encounter quirky characters along the way. Filled with humor, adventure, and themes of friendship, “Ice Age” is an animated gem that explores the bonds formed in the face of adversity.
12. March Of The Penguins
Rated – G
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime
Run time: 80 minutes
In the harsh Antarctic winter, emperor penguins embark on a remarkable journey to their breeding grounds. “March of the Penguins” documents their incredible struggle against the elements, showcasing the challenges of survival, parenthood, and the circle of life in one of the harshest environments on Earth. Narrated by Morgan Freeman, this awe-inspiring documentary beautifully captures the resilience and determination of these fascinating creatures.
13. Smallfoot
Rated – PG
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime
Run time: 96 minutes
In the hidden world of Yetis, a young Yeti named Migo discovers something that challenges the beliefs of his community—a Smallfoot (human). Determined to prove the existence of Smallfoots, Migo sets out on an adventure that leads to unexpected discoveries and bridges the gap between two different worlds. “Smallfoot” is a humorous and heartwarming animated film that explores themes of curiosity, acceptance, and understanding.
14. Frozen II
Rated: PG
Available on: Disney+
Run time: 103 minutes
Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, and Sven embark on a journey beyond their kingdom to discover the origin of Elsa's magical powers and the secrets of their family's past. Facing mythical elements and elemental forces, the group navigates through enchanted forests and dark seas to save their home. “Frozen II” expands the Frozen universe with epic adventures, powerful music, and themes of self-discovery and embracing change.
15. Abominable
Rated: PG
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime
Run time: 97 minutes
Yi, a teenage girl, discovers a young Yeti on her rooftop and names him Everest. Together with her friends Peng and Jin, Yi embarks on an epic journey to reunite Everest with his family in the Himalayas. As they face challenges and encounter magical moments, the group learns about the power of friendship, family, and the beauty of the natural world. “Abominable” is a visually stunning animated film that combines adventure, humor, and heartwarming storytelling.
16. Happy Feet 2
Rated: PG
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime
Run time: 100 minutes
In the world of Emperor Penguins, Mumble's son, Erik, struggles to find his own place and talents. When the penguin nation faces a new threat, Mumble, Erik, and their friends embark on a journey to save their home. Filled with spectacular dance sequences and messages of perseverance and unity, “Happy Feet Two” is an animated musical extravaganza that continues the story of the dancing penguin hero.
17. Snow Dogs
Rated: PG
Available on: Disney+
Run time: 99 minutes
If you're looking for a movie for older kids, you'll love Snow Dogs! Miami dentist Ted Brooks discovers he has inherited a team of sled dogs in Alaska. Determined to honor his roots and the memory of his birth mother, Ted navigates the challenges of mushing while forming unexpected bonds with the quirky dogs and the locals. “Snow Dogs” is a heartwarming family comedy that explores the themes of identity, heritage, and the joy of embracing new adventures. It's a great winter movie for kids!
18. Penguins Of Madagascar
Rated: PG
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime
Run time: 92 minutes
The charismatic penguins from the “Madagascar” franchise take center stage in their own spy-themed adventure. Skipper, Kowalski, Rico, and Private join forces with a secret organization to stop the villainous Dr. Octavius Brine and save the world. Filled with humor, action, and memorable characters, “Penguins of Madagascar” offers an entertaining and fast-paced animated experience for audiences of all ages.
19. Snow Buddies
Rated: G
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime
Run time: 87 minutes
Pour yourself a cup of hot cocoa and settle in for some laughs with Snow Buddies! Young kids will love this heartwarming adventure with a group of playful puppies who stumble upon an abandoned snowbound town. With the help of their newfound friends, both human and canine, they work together to bring the magic back to Christmas and discover the true spirit of the season. “Snow Buddies” is a delightful family film that combines adorable puppies, winter wonder, and the joy of friendship.
20. Golden Winter
Rated: PG
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime
Run time: 86 minutes
In “Golden Winter,” a group of neighborhood dogs finds themselves on an unexpected adventure when they find a stash of magical Christmas ornaments. As they explore their newfound abilities, they work together to save Christmas for a family in need. Filled with holiday spirit, heartwarming moments, and a touch of magic, “Golden Winter” is a family-friendly film that celebrates the joy of friendship and the magic of the holiday season.
21. Balto
Rated: G
Available on: Hulu, Amazon Prime
Run time: 78 minutes
Based on a true story, “Balto” follows the journey of a half-wolf, half-dog sled dog named Balto. When a diphtheria outbreak threatens the children of Nome, Alaska, Balto becomes a hero as he leads a team of sled dogs through treacherous conditions to deliver much-needed medicine. Despite facing adversity and skepticism, Balto's courage and determination prove that even an underdog can make a difference. Filled with adventure, heart, and the enduring spirit of a true hero, “Balto” is an animated classic.
22. The Snowy Day
Rated: G
Available on: Amazon Prime
Run time: 39 minutes
Based on the award-winning picture book The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats, Peter goes on a snowy walk to bring home their Christmas Eve dinner. If you're looking for the best snow day movies, this is it! A little mug of hot chocolate and a cozy blanket will make this movie even better!
23. Jack Frost
Rated: PG
Available on: Amazon Prime
Run time: 101 minutes
In this family fantasy film, Jack Frost, a musician and absentee father, gets a second chance at bonding with his son when he magically transforms into a snowman. As a snowman, Jack has the opportunity to mend his relationship with his son Charlie and teach him valuable life lessons. Filled with heartwarming moments and a touch of magic, “Jack Frost” explores the importance of family and the second chances life sometimes offers.
24. Snow Queen
Rated: Not rated
Available on: Amazon Prime
Run time: 62 minutes
In this animated adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's classic fairy tale, a powerful Snow Queen casts a spell on a young boy, Kai, causing him to lose all memories of his family and past life. Gerda, Kai's sister, embarks on a brave journey to rescue him from the Snow Queen's icy palace. Along the way, she encounters various magical creatures and faces challenges that test the strength of her love and determination. “Snow Queen” is a visually enchanting film that captures the timeless themes of love, friendship, and the triumph of good over evil.
25. Blippi And The Holiday Snow Globe
Rated: Not rated
Available on: Hulu
Run time: 63 minutes
While decorating a cozy cabin for the holidays, Blippi and Meekah find a snow globe that can whisk them off on festive adventures.
26. The Chronicles Of Narnia
Rated: PG
Available on: Disney+
Run time: 143 minutes
Based on C.S. Lewis's beloved novel, four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—are evacuated to the English countryside during World War II. There, they discover the magical land of Narnia through a wardrobe. In Narnia, they join forces with the noble lion Aslan to defeat the White Witch, who has plunged the land into eternal winter. Filled with epic battles, mythical creatures, and themes of courage and sacrifice, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” is a captivating fantasy adventure that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Hope you enjoy some cozy movie time this winter! Please check the current availability on streaming platforms, as it may change over time.
About The Author
Hi, I'm Molly, the creative mind behind Firstieland. With over 35 years of experience in early childhood education, I'm your primary support for resources that will save you time and make learning feel like play. Learn more about my mission for Firstieland here.
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