GUEST EDITORIAL: Positive and Inspirational Movies To Watch With Your Children

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Positive and Inspirational Movies To Watch With Your Children

by Lewis Robinson

These days, with all the available video sources, it's challenging to immediately determine not only what's inappropriate for your children to watch but what can be advantageous. Many movies are excellent for entertainment and conveying positive messages; you simply have to explore a little. Here is a sampling of some of the best movies for your children of all ages that adults will enjoy and encourage deep thoughts and motivation to be better people. 

Watch these films as a family. After the movie, have everyone talk about their opinion on the film and the message if they learned something valuable. 

Coco

"Coco" is a fantastic movie with extraordinarily vivid animation and charming characters. It takes you on a cultural journey. It focuses on Mexican traditions and customs, primarily the Day of the Dead. It features young Miguel, who experiences a wide range of emotions on his challenging journey. It is ultimately happy and inspiring, teaching important lessons. These are lessons that D Gary Young and his associates value, such as the importance of family, unconditional love, culture and tradition. It also puts value on teamwork, gratitude and keeping the perseverance to chase your dreams.

Wonder

"Wonder" is a movie about a 10-year-old boy named Auggie Pullman. Auggie is a normal kid who has a unique face. It's not until the fifth grade that he finally attends mainstream school. This movie takes you on an emotional roller coaster, but it is enjoyable and relatable for kids and adults. Everyone should take something positive from this movie; some essential themes are: don't judge a book by its cover, compassion and acceptance are paramount, everyone has value, and there's no reason to strive to blend in when you're meant to achieve greatness. 

Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory 

This movie shares an important message about mystery, truth and deception and society. Charlie Bucket is a young boy from a low-income family. He wins one of the five Golden Tickets to go on a tour of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory, which remains a mystery to most people, plus making chocolate makes it that much more appealing. Charlie is the only one who comes from a low-income family; the others are well-to-do kids who lack the discipline to follow instructions and disobey orders. This disobedience leads to terrible consequences for each ticket holder, except for Charlie, who is honest and knows there's more to life than being rich.

The Other Sister

"The Other Sister" is a charming romantic comedy that should be good for most teens. It features Carla, who has a mental disability and wants nothing more than an "ordinary" independent life. The characters are very likable. Some sad, happy and hilarious parts also include messages like acceptance and appreciation of all people. It also shows that you should go after your dreams and encourage others as they go after theirs. Often people can achieve things much more than you might expect from them, and it's a great thing to not only share in their joy but also support them through challenges.

Inside Out

"Inside Out" is a cute animated movie that features a sweet young girl named Riley. Riley moves to a new city with her family. She encounters significant changes and obstacles in her new life. This movie teaches that emotions are not destructive, and you shouldn't be afraid to express them. Joy, Fear, Disgust, Anger and Sadness are other characters who represent the various emotions that humans experience. They teach Riley that when she tries to hide her sadness, her problems only worsen. Sadness is a natural part of life, and people will help you when they know you're feeling sad. Emotions can bond people in many ways, so you should embrace them and appreciate the support of family and friends.

Many movies have valuable social and motivational messages that will teach your children (and you) lessons that can help navigate daily life. All of the films listed here will also provide unforgettable characters who are very relatable and provide remarkable imagery.