Are you looking for the best Christmas movies for little kids? We’ve got you covered with this list of festive films for toddlers and under-fives.
While we love watching Christmas films, some of the classics aren’t really suitable for very young children.
I’ve put together this list of Christmas Films, Festive specials and animated shorts that are perfect for little ones to get into the spirit of the seasons, without having to sit still for too long!
This post is filled with films I genuinely watch with my little ones and also includes a few I remember fondly from my own childhood.
I have avoided anything that has any scary moments (so not Muppet Christmas Carol sadly) and also vetoed any comedy violence, so no Home Alone here either.
1. A Go! Go! Cory Carson Christmas
As a parent, some kid’s programmes can irritate (I’m looking at you Bing Bunny) but I quite like Cory Carson, a children’s series based around the Vtech Toot Toot Vehicles.
I especially like the Christmas episode in which Cory becomes convinced a stranded stranger with a white beard is Santa.
Watch On Netflix
2. The Gruffalo’s Child
While not technically a Christmas film, the snowy setting of this Magic Light Pictures short film makes this a lovely festive watch.
At around half an hour, it should hold little ones’ attention for just long enough and is perfect for fans of children’s author Julia Donaldson.
Watch On BBC iPlayer
3. Stick Man
Sticking with another Magic Light production, follow Stick Man as he tries to find his way home in time for Christmas, helped along the way by Father Christmas himself.
If your children love the book then this short film is sure to be a big hit, with voices provided by Martin Freeman and Rob Brydon.
Watch On BBC iPlayer
4. The Snowman
This classic is a must-watch for many families over the festive period, as young James has an adventure with the Snowman he builds in his back garden who is magically brought to life.
The wordless film is magical, filled with stunning animation, and features the heartwarming song “Walking in the Air”.
As well as being available to stream, The Snowman is usually shown on Channel Four over the festive period.
Watch On Channel 4s Streaming Service
5. Olaf’s Frozen Adventure
The Christmas short features all your favourite characters from the Frozen franchise helping snowman Olaf learn all about different festive traditions.
Perfect for a fix of Elsa and Anna without having to watch Frozen again.
Watch On Disney+
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6. Father Christmas
Another Raymond Briggs classic brought to life.
Follow a rather grumpy Father Christmas as he tries holiday destinations around the world including France, Scotland and Las Vegas before heading back to start getting prepared for the festive season.
As well as being available to stream, Father Christmas is usually shown on Channel Four over the festive period.
Watch On Amazon Video
7. Mickey’s Christmas Carol
This Disney take on the beloved Charles Dickens classic simplifies the story for younger viewers while featuring familiar characters such as Mickey Mouse.
Watch On Disney+
8. CBeebies Panto
Watching the CBeebies Panto at home is a great way to introduce little ones to the magic of theatre at Christmas time, without the stress of actually being there. Your little ones will see lots of familiar faces from the CBeebies channel and the shows are tailored to little ones, so no scary bits.
While I adore my little girl, sitting still for more than a few moments has never been her forte. Even with all the joining in, I knew she would struggle with a live Pantomime until she was a bit older.
However, we enjoyed watching the CBeebies Pantos and many recent productions appear on BBC iPlayer in the run-up to Christmas.
Watch On BBC iPlayer