Exploring history doesn’t have to be boring! These 10 kid-friendly movies creatively bring historical events, people, and eras to life, blending entertainment with educational value. Perfect for community screenings or classroom discussions, these films captivate young audiences while sparking an interest in history.
Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero
This animated film tells the true story of a stray Boston Terrier named Stubby who becomes a hero during World War I. After being adopted by a young soldier named Robert Conroy, Stubby accompanies the 102nd Infantry Regiment to the front lines in France. His keen sense of smell and hearing help save lives, and he becomes the most decorated dog in American military history.
Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero is a heartwarming tale that introduces kids to World War I through the eyes of an unlikely hero. The movie highlights themes of bravery, loyalty, and the bond between humans and animals, making it both educational and inspiring for young viewers.
Buy a copy of Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero on DVD.
The Color of Friendship
Set in 1977, this Disney Channel original movie explores the unlikely friendship between Mahree Bok, a white South African girl, and Piper Dellums, an African-American girl. Mahree comes to the United States as an exchange student and must confront her own prejudices as she learns about racial equality and the anti-apartheid movement.
The Color of Friendship offers a powerful lesson on racism, cultural differences, and the importance of understanding and acceptance. It's an excellent film for teaching kids about apartheid, civil rights, and how friendship can bridge even the widest of cultural divides.
Rent or Buy The Color of Friendship on Amazon Prime Video.
The Book Thief
Based on the best-selling novel, The Book Thief follows a young girl named Liesel Meminger in Nazi Germany. Liesel finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others, including a Jewish man hiding in her basement. Through her love of reading, she learns about the power of words and storytelling.
This film provides a poignant look at life in Germany during World War II from a child's perspective. It addresses themes of literacy, resistance, and the impact of war on everyday people, making it a valuable educational resource for discussing this complex period in history.
Buy a copy of The Book Thief on DVD.
Manifest Destiny: The Lewis & Clark Musical Adventure
This quirky musical takes the famous expedition of Lewis and Clark and gives it a comedic twist. Packed with colorful characters, catchy songs, and humorous moments, the film brings a fresh and imaginative take to one of America’s most iconic journeys. Sacagawea plays a key role, helping the explorers navigate the uncharted West while the film explores themes of teamwork and perseverance.
While the movie is more humorous than historically accurate, it’s a fantastic starting point for kids curious about the real Lewis and Clark expedition. Its lighthearted tone can inspire children to dive deeper into the true story, learning about the challenges of westward expansion and the significant contributions of Native Americans to the journey.
Rent or buy Manifest Destiny: The Lewis & Clark Musical Adventure on Amazon Prime Video.
The American Girl Film Series
The American Girl movies bring the beloved doll characters to life, with each film rooted in a different historical era. Kit faces the Great Depression, Felicity navigates life during the American Revolution, Samantha tackles issues of social class in the early 1900s, and Molly experiences World War II.
These films combine personal stories with larger historical contexts, making them relatable and educational for kids. With strong, independent protagonists, they inspire children to learn about history while celebrating resilience and courage.
Buy a copy of 4 Film Favorites: American Girl on DVD.
Mr. Peabody & Sherman
This animated adventure follows the genius dog Mr. Peabody and his adopted son Sherman as they travel through time in the WABAC machine. The duo visits famous historical moments, from the Trojan War to the Renaissance, teaching kids about key figures and events along the way.
While the humor and hijinks take center stage, the movie subtly introduces young viewers to historical concepts and encourages curiosity about the past. It’s a clever mix of fun and education, perfect for sparking a love of history in kids.
Buy a copy of Mr. Peabody & Sherman on DVD.
Newsies
Inspired by the true story of the 1899 New York City newsboy strike, Newsies follows a group of young paperboys fighting for fair wages. With its lively musical numbers and inspiring underdog story, the film captures the spirit of standing up for justice.
Newsies is an entertaining way to introduce kids to labor rights and social activism. Its message of unity and perseverance resonates, making history engaging and relatable for young audiences.
Buy a copy of Newsies on DVD.
Fly Me to the Moon
This animated film imagines the Apollo 11 moon landing from the perspective of three adventurous houseflies who hitch a ride on the spacecraft. While the story adds a fantastical twist, it’s grounded in the real-life events of the 1969 mission that made history.
The movie introduces children to the excitement of space exploration while providing basic knowledge about NASA and the moon landing. It’s a lighthearted way to inspire curiosity about science, technology, and the pioneers of space travel.
Buy a copy of Fly Me to the Moon on DVD.
War Horse
Directed by Steven Spielberg, War Horse follows the journey of Joey, a horse sold into service during World War I, and the young boy determined to reunite with him. Through Joey’s eyes, viewers witness the impact of war on both humans and animals.
While beautifully made, this film is best suited for older kids due to its intense war scenes and emotional depth. War Horse provides a powerful depiction of World War I, emphasizing themes of loyalty, bravery, and hope, making it a moving and educational experience for mature viewers.
Buy a copy of War Horse on DVD.
Night at the Museum
History comes alive—literally—in this fun-filled adventure where a night guard at a museum discovers that its exhibits come to life after dark. With historical figures like Teddy Roosevelt and Sacagawea joining the chaos, the movie brings history to life in an engaging and accessible way.
Perfect for younger audiences, Night at the Museum sparks curiosity about museums and the stories behind their exhibits. It’s an entertaining introduction to history, encouraging kids to see it as something vibrant and full of adventure.
Buy a copy of the Night at the Museum Collection on DVD.