20 Baby Shower Instagram Captions To Capture Every Special Moment

Capturing all your baby’s precious moments starts way before they arrive, and one big event that will go down in the memory books is the baby shower. Whether you know the gender or not, you can still set a theme that gives you plenty of content for your baby shower Instagram captions. It’s all in the details.

Just look around and find a way to tell a story about everything from the fun, games, outfits, champagne (that everyone but you gets to sip on), gifts, and even the food. The best baby shower Instagram captions come from going with it and enjoying the day. Don’t miss a thing.

If you’re stumped, then we’ve pulled some of the perfect ways to express all that this event embodies. You just have to provide the pictures, then you’re good to go!

Baby Shower Captions For The Gift Section

Hopefully you’ll get all you need to be prepared for all the newness that is about to enter your life. Here are some captions while you snap your angles of the area full of gifts from the people who love you!

• Gifts for my greatest gift.
• Look at how much they love you already!
• They are already spoiling my baby rotten.
• My village has filled our baby’s closets.
• Diapers for days. I like it like that!

Baby Shower Captions Celebrating Your Baby

This is the reason you’re here. To show up, love on mommy-to-be, and show support for the incoming bundle. It’s kinda like a birthday party before the birthday, right? And these are some of the best ways to caption these moments.

• Another one joins the bunch.
• New addition loading...
• Your blessing is on the way.
• Time to celebrate the bump!
• Baby alert: she’s coming soon!
• Pinked out for baby girl.
• Life’s about to get real sweet.

Baby Shower Captions From Your Friend Group

This is for the besties, the ride-or-dies, the day ones.

• No champagne for mommy, but we’ll drink for you.
• Your last hoorah before a person comes out of your hoo-hah.
• After the party’s over, we’ll still show up when you need relief.
• Du, Du, Du, Another one joins the bunch! (To the tune of “Another One Bites the Dust.” You get it.)
• Getting in our laughs before the crying begins.
• Our friend group is growing!
• Can’t wait to meet my new best friend.
• My godchild has my bestie glowing!

When you’re captioning these baby shower moments for Instagram, be intentional and make it last. That’s what makes a good baby shower caption.

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15 Baby Names That Mean Hope

Newborn babies bring fresh anticipation and a desire for a better future. In fact, they fill us with hope! Eda J. Leshan said, “A new baby is like the beginning of all things — wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities.” And having some baby names that mean hope in your back pocket, ready to go when your little drop of wonder and hope arrives is worth it.

It was in the 17th century when Christians began to use Hope as a name for girls, according to Nameberry. In Old English, the word hopian means “to hope” or “positive expectation” as stated on Wordsense’s website. And the word hope was later created.

Although Hope is a girl's name, there are many boy names that share the meaning and significance of this special virtue. So you’ve got options.

Because of hope, we all have something to look forward to, and finding a name with this meaning is perfect if you’re expecting. This list is packed with beautifully unique names, including some you may have never heard before. And if you have you might have never guessed the significance of their meaning.

Hope is the one thing we all grasp for when things are messy and life gets out of control. Every time a baby enters this world it’s like a burst of hope for humanity. Admit it — the thought of your new addition makes you want to step up your life game. And these baby names that mean hope can give it an even heavier, but lighthearted, meaning.

Hope

If you love the name Hope, then stick to this! It’s classic, graceful, meaningful, and endearing. The girl's name is perfect for your precious daughter and it literally never goes out of style. Hope originated from Old English and was first used as a Christian name in the 17th century. The beautiful name has been around for quite some time and your baby girl will be one in a long line of people to carry it.

Brayleigh

If you’re having a girl, Brayleigh is a unique American name for her. It seems like a combination of two names, but it still has a simple sound that works. Brayleigh means “ray of hope,” and that is a promise of better. Your baby girl will be a big dreamer, so get ready to watch her soar.

Raza

Raza, which means “hope,” is an African name given to boys. Can you imagine the future of your baby when they have this name? It will definitely be big, colorful, and creative. Raza is so uncommon that people won’t be able to help their intrigue. Your Raza will not only inspire the people he meets, but his life will also be lived outside the box. And that’s a lot to look forward to.

Esperanza

This Spanish name, Esperanza, is another beautiful choice for a girl that means “hope.” It radiates whimsy and fulfilled wishes, and your little princess will light up every room with her optimistic aura. You can also consider a fun quirky nickname like Espie.

Jonah

Jonah is Hebrew and means “dove,” which is a symbol of hope. Jonah was a biblical figure that brought word of God’s grace to the people of Nineveh. Although his stubbornness caused him to initially resist God’s command, he carried a message of hope. This is a strong ‘J’ name for your boy who will fill your home with hopeful expectation of what’s to come.

Ashia

Ashia has a very close sound to the name Aisha. The difference is subtle in how the ‘A’ is pronounced and the meaning of this Arabic name, “life and hope,” gives you a beautiful reason to embrace it for your little girl. Your bubbly, bouncing little girl will radiate optimism and no one will be able to miss it.

Dylan

Dylan, a name with Celtic origins, has become a staple among boys, but you can also treat it as a gender neutral name.. If there’s a group of friends, you can almost guarantee there’s a Dylan in the bunch with a big personality. And that’s pretty fitting because it means “a ray of hope.” Your sweet one will move through the world full of positive anticipation and it will definitely be contagious.

Natia

Natia ties back to many roots — Australian, Chinese, and Polish. The sweet girls' name that means “hope” will reflect wisdom and self-awareness for your daughter. And those are the traits of a leader. So don’t quiet her bossiness, she’s just practicing for the future.

Taraji

Taraji means “anticipation and faith,” which are attributes of hope. This girl name is derived from the Swahili language and is a bold name that is totally outside of the norm. And you have much to look forward to because just like the famous actress Taraji P. Henson, your daughter will grasp to her life and aspire to her greatest potential.

Deene

Deene is a gender-neutral name that can be given to a boy or a girl, but this is more of a feminine spelling as opposed to the traditional spelling of Dean. Both names, however, are pronounced the same. Deene, which means “hope,” has French roots and it carries a graceful calm with it. Don’t pass up on this one if you’re looking for something a little different, but with a classic sound.

Amala

Amala sounds like the name of an exotic princess. It originates from the Arabic language, and it means “hope.” Amala is not a name that you’ll hear a lot in the U.S., which would give your little girl even more exclusivity in identity. Her hopeful personality will be one of a kind.

Nadja

This Russian name (which also has Arabic ties) is the epitome of elegance. Nadja means “hope, tender, delicate,” and your daughter will purely reflect all these attributes. Her smile and tender demeanor will pull others in, and her presence alone will be a warm comfort.

Zita

Zita is both a charming and uncommon name for a girl. Its origins are Spanish, and it means “little hope,” so your tiny bundle of joy comes into this world full of life, excitement, and anticipation. There aren’t many girl names beginning with ‘Z,’ but Zita will be perfect for your ambitious daughter.

Laelynn

Many names either start or finish with “Lynn,” but I can’t promise they have a more beautiful meaning than Laelynn. It is a Canadian name for a girl and means “flower of hope.” Big wow! Watching your little girl blossom will be a reminder every day of how bright her life will be and the blessing and hope she shines into your family.

Asha

Asha has origins in Swahili, Hindi, and Sanskrit. This simple but pretty name has such a powerful meaning, “hope; life.” When it comes to popularity, Asha falls somewhere in the middle. But if it meshes well with your family name, and you’re going for something starting with an ‘A,’ it’s a pretty darn good pick for your little girl.

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Kate Middleton Is Hosting A Christmas Carol Service

Kate Middleton is getting into the swing of things early this holiday season. The mom of three announced that she will be hosting a Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey this year in an effort to celebrate inspiring acts of kindness performed by people in the community. While the Christmas carol service will take place across the pond, it’s also going to be televised. So perhaps the rest of us who aren’t in attendance will get a glimpse of the Duchess of Cambridge “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree.” That’s what they mean by Christmas carols, yes?

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge shared a statement about the upcoming event on Twitter, explaining on Thursday that “next week, The Duchess will host a Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey, supported by The Royal Foundation, bringing many of those inspirational people together. The service, which will be broadcast in December, will look back on the last eighteen months, to think not only of the unprecedented challenges that we have all faced as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, but also to remember the positives: people and organizations pulling together in their communities, the small acts of kindness across different demographics and generations, and the unsung heroes who stepped up to help others.”

Invitations have already been sent out to “guests will range from those involved in grassroots community initiatives, charity workers and volunteers, to teachers, emergency responders and armed forces personnel,” per a Kensington Palace press release shared by Hello! Magazine. The event will be broadcast by ITV, which is only available in the United States via a VPN, as a special program, but the broadcaster is likely to share highlights on its social media feed. You know that they’ll want to share precious moments like Middleton singing her sweet heart out, of course. So stay tuned.

The Duchess of Cambridge really seems to come alive at Christmas with her royal outings. In 2019 she and Prince William teamed up with Mary Berry for a holiday cooking special, A Berry Royal Christmas, in 2019. The three worked together to feed essential workers who wouldn’t be with their families for the holidays. That same year she joined elementary school kids at a tree farm to help them choose a Christmas tree.

Even in 2020, when the world was locked down and Christmas was bleak as anything, Middleton took her three children, 8-year-old Prince George, 6-year-old Princess Charlotte, and 3-year-old Prince Louis, to a holiday pantomime along with families of essential workers. It seems to me she has found her niche. Festive giving. And what do you want to bet she’s a great singer too?

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Parents Upset After 9-Year-Old Told Their Kid Santa Isn't Real

Another Christmas is on its way, and you know what that means. Another year where parents debate the whole Santa thing. It is an endlessly tricky situation to navigate, particularly for families with kids in those early years where some might have heard that Santa is more of a feeling than an actual person and some might still believe in the big man in red. For one parent of a 9-year-old who told other kids at school that Santa isn’t real, it’s bringing up a new dynamic. How responsible are parents for what their kid tells their friends about the Santa story?

An anonymous parent took to the popular British message board Netmums to ask just such a question. After their 9-year-old was engaged in a discussion with other kids about whether or not Santa is real, they received a “very shirty message from a parent.”

“Our kids are 9 and at school they have had a discussion amongst a few of them about whether Santa is real,” the parent wrote. “I've had a very shirty message from a parent, which appears to single out my child having spilled the beans and subsequently spoilt the 'magic of Christmas' for their child, who has also told their younger siblings who've been crying over it.”

The parent in question went on to explain, “My child found out about Santa from their older sibling, and wasn't too bothered by it. I've said before that they should not talk about it with their friends, and when I asked them about this conversation, my child was absolutely gutted to have caused upset to others.”

The tradition of telling children Santa Claus brings their presents on Christmas Eve is a widely accepted part of the holidays, but it’s also... not true. And other parents piped in to comfort this parent that they are not really responsible for their child spilling the beans on the Santa myth for other kids. “Your kid was told not to say anything but is upset that they have caused upset,” wrote one fellow parent. “Adults aren't perfect so children certainly aren't so that should be the end of it. Obviously a group of them were discussing it and your child has spoken outJust explain your kid is very upset they have caused upset.”

Another added that a brief apology might not go amiss, “I personally would apologise on my child’s behalf, Santa is such a sensitive area with parents trying to keep the magic going when there are younger siblings, unfortunately your child was the bearer of such news.”

Finding out that Santa is really just a myth can be tricky for some kids, and if they’re asked to keep it going it might feel like too much of a responsibility. After all, a 9-year-old shouldn’t be expected to keep Santa alive for their classmates.

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‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ Season 4: News, Release Date, How To Watch

After nearly two years of waiting, fans are finally some info about Season 4 of the Amazon Original series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. On Nov. 30, Amazon Prime has dropped an official teaser trailer for the show’s upcoming season, just a few weeks after Rachel Brosnahan shared the first look. But fans of the New York housewife-turned-stand-up-comic will, unfortunately, have to keep waiting a few more months to see Midge fully back in action.

On Tuesday, Amazon released the first of what is expected to be four teaser trailers for the upcoming season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. While the trailer doesn’t reveal much — it’s a teaser after all — it does let fans know their favorite funny girl hasn’t given up on her standup career after the disaster that was the Season 3 finale.

Earlier in the month, Brosnahan and Amazon Prime Video dropped two first-look photos from the upcoming season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel on Instagram. In the first, Brosnahan (who plays Miriam "Midge" Maisel in the series) can be seen lying down amidst a mountain of feathers, fringe, and sequins in what appears to be a showgirls’ dressing room. While Midge stares expressionless into the camera, girls in elaborate headdresses congregate behind her. In the second photo, Midge’s parents Abe and Rose (played by Tony Shalhoub and Marin Hinkle) sit behind two TV dinner trays while presumably watching television.

Where’d We Last Leave Mrs. Maisel?

The end of Season 3 brought some tough developments for Midge. (Note: Some spoilers are ahead if you have not watched the first three seasons.) After cracking jokes about fictional singer Shy Baldwin and insinuating about his sexuality as part of her act, Midge found herself fired from the singer’s international tour and out of a job. But Midge’s firing is especially troublesome considering she’d used the job as collateral to buy an apartment.

The last season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel also saw Midge’s manager Susie Meyerson (played by Alex Borstein) gamble away all of her and Midge’s money. In a perhaps ill-thought-out attempt to set matters right, Susie burns down her childhood home in order to collect and pay back Midge with the home’s insurance money.

Expect To See New Cast Members In Season 4

Viewers can expect to see new faces added to the Mrs. Maisel cast in season four. Kelly Bishop and Milo Ventimiglia of Gilmore Girls have both signed on to reunite with creator Amy Sherman-Palladino for the upcoming season, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

What Do We Know About Season 4’s Plot?

The short answer is not a whole lot. While Brosnahan has given fans a first look at the upcoming season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel — and Amazon has dropped a brief 50-second trailer — neither are exactly tell-alls, if you know what I mean. Of course, Midge and Susie will likely both have to face the consequences of their actions early in Season 4 and so it seems reasonable that viewers will get to see them grappling to pick up the pieces of their lives.

However, Daniel Palladino, the series’ executive producer previously told Glamour that he and Sherman-Palladino were “debating” where to take Midge’s story from the Season 3 finale and stressed the pair couldn’t “assure” fans of anything.

“We’re not here to make anybody feel good,” Sherman-Palladino told Glamour. Does this mean Midge will be moving back in with her parents?

Did The Trailer Reveal Anything?

The first teaser trailer for the upcoming season sees Midge and Susie talking business over sandwiches at their favorite diner. “The past is behind us,” viewers see Susie tell Midge. “Shy who? F**k him. Moving forward we need a game plan.”

While the trailer doesn’t reveal what game plan the two ultimately come up with, it does show Midge making a bold (and probably risky) decision: No more opening act gigs. Instead, Midge declares she only wants to do gigs where she can say whatever she wants. When Susie attempts to explain that’s not how the business works, Midge utters a line that will likely prove to be a key theme for the show’s fourth season: “Then let’s change the business.”

Is There A Release Date For Season 4?

Yes! After much anticipation, Amazon Prime has announced that Season 4 of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel will premiere on Feb. 18. But according to Deadline, Amazon Prime will be changing up how they release the show. Instead of dropping the entire season at once, as has been done in previous years, Amazon is expected to release two episodes every Friday for four weeks.

How To Watch The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel streams exclusively on Amazon Prime, meaning you’ll need an Amazon Prime account in order to watch the upcoming season as well as the first three.

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New Zealand Politician Biked To Hospital While In Labor

When New Zealand Parliament member Julie Anne Genter went into labor early Sunday morning, she did something not many people having contractions would do: She jumped on her bicycle. Genter cycled to the hospital while in labor, giving birth to her second child roughly an hour later.

“Big news,” Genter announced Sunday on Instagram. “At 3:04 a.m. this morning we welcomed the newest member of our family.”

Although the transportation spokesperson for the Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand and a general cycling enthusiast, Genter said she didn’t actually intend on riding her bike to the hospital to give birth. “I genuinely wasn’t planning to cycle in labour, but it did end up happening,” the parliamentarian wrote on Instagram.

Genter told the New Zealand news outlet Stuff that her original plan had been to ride to the hospital while sitting in the front of a cargo bike her partner Peter Nunns would pedal. However, when the time came, the couple found Genter and her hospital bag were too much added weight. Undeterred by the development, Genter told the news outlet she “just got out and rode.”

“My contractions weren’t that bad when we left at 2 a.m. to go to the hospital,” Genter shared on Instagram. “Though they were 2-3 minutes apart and picking up in intensity by the time we arrived 10 minutes later.”

The parliamentarian told Stuff she probably had three contractions during her 10-minute bicycle ride to the hospital and another contraction while in the hospital’s car park.

Despite the increasing severity of her contractions, Genter can be seen smiling while parking her bike in the hospitals parking garage in one of the photos she shared over Instagram on Sunday. In another, Genter can be seen pedaling her bicycle down a dark street while on the way to the hospital in the pre-dawn hours. Other photos show Genter and Nunns cradling their newborn infant shortly after birth in the hospital.

“Amazingly now we have a healthy happy little one sleeping, as is her dad,” Genter went on to share. “Feeling blessed to have had excellent care and support from a great team, in what turned out to be a very fast (and happily uncomplicated) birth.”

But this isn’t the first time Genter has ridden her bike to the hospital to give birth. In August 2018, while pregnant with her first child, The Guardian reported Genter biked to Auckland hospital while 42 weeks pregnant in order to be induced.

“Beautiful Sunday morning for a bike ride, to the hospital, for an induction to finally have this baby,” Genter said on Instagram while sharing photos of her and Nunns cycling to the hospital.

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Beyoncé's Daughters Blue Ivy & Rumi Star In New Ivy Park Ad

Beyoncé has dropped her latest Ivy Park line but all everyone can talk about are her two best models. The star’s daughters Blue Ivy and Rumi Carter both made appearances in their mother’s latest ad campaign for Ivy Park x Adidas’ Halls of Ivy collaborative collection and absolutely stole the show.

About 50 seconds into the video, which dropped on Ivy Park’s Twitter and social media on Tuesday, the Carter women appear. The 40-year-old mother of three matches her daughters in black-and-white checkered outfits. The girls are wearing two pieces and Bey is rocking a one-piece. Beyoncé holds Rumi, 4, on her hip and Blue, 9, poses in the background with a soccer ball.

“WELCOME TO THE HALLS OF IVY,” the caption read. This is the second time both sisters have appeared as a pair in Ivy Park ads. Rumi made her debut in her mother’s Ivy Park kids campaign, alongside her brother, Sir. As for Blue Ivy, she’s a veteran and has made several cameos with her mother, including a recent ad for Tiffany & Co.

Blue and Rumi aren’t the only celeb kids featured in the ad; Ryan Philippe and Reese Witherspoon's teens, Ava and Deacon, as well as Kobe and Vanessa Bryant’s daughter, Natalia, also make appearances. NBA stars James Harden and Jalen Green are also featured in the ad.

The Halls of Ivy is the fifth collection between Ivy Park and Adidas, since its debut last January. The collection will feature 89 pieces for adults and 34 for kids and will have lots of patchworks, fur, twill, knit, and leather patterns.

“[Hall of Ivy] firmly believes that the power of higher learning can also come from finding your own voice through self-expression, connecting with one another, and sharing space with like-minded people,” the companies released a joint statement to WWD. “Our design cues are based on this philosophy and present a collection of classic fashion silhouettes, infused with individual style, swagger, and the spirit of following your wildest dreams.”

Hall of Ivy will drop for 24 hours on the Adidas website on Dec. 9 and globally on Dec. 10.

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Best Family Charities To Donate To in 2021

One of the important lessons that any parent can pass down to their children is the importance of giving back. And a good way to do this as a family is by finding a charity where you can donate clothes, time, or resources — especially on Giving Tuesday.

Giving Tuesday, which is annually the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, is referred to as a “global generosity movement.” It was started in 2012 to help inspire everyone around the world to do some sort of simple act of kindness in their community. And this year, on Nov. 30, I’ve rounded up a list of charities that are perfect for families to talk about and to donate to on Giving Tuesday.

Every so often I call my kids to their room and ask them to pull out clothes or other items they want to bless a child with. The first time we did this, I sat them down and explained that every child doesn’t have a life like theirs. Some kids don’t have a grown-up at home to care for them. Some don’t have a lot of clothes or even a day full of big meals. There are even families that don’t have a home to stay in or beds of their own. It was an eye-opening moment for them, and I could feel their desire to give rise up.

Although this is generally considered a season of giving, it’s always the perfect time to show kindness through a generous task or donation. This list of charities offers your family the perfect opportunity to help people in need on Giving Tuesday, and can open your own children’s eyes to how much of a difference they can make.

The Bautista Project

The Bautista Project is a veteran-run, Tampa-based charity on a mission to end homelessness. Bi-weekly they take bags of basic living items and deliver them to their “friends without homes” in the community. Each bag carries food, water, hygiene products, and something special that fits the needs of the season like sweatpants or blankets for winter. The founder is extremely passionate about her work because she herself has experienced homelessness. You can contribute to their mission by sending essentials from their Amazon wish list.

Cedars Kids

Keeping families together and creating healthy bonds are the goal of Cedars Kids. For over 75 years, the organization has been housing kids who come out of abusive situations, giving shelter and resources to families, and providing positive intervention programs for at-risk youth. For the holidays, Cedars Kids has special items that your family can donate toward (ranging from $10 to $75), to give a child a special Christmas gift, or a much needed item like a winter coat.

Save The Children

Save the Children provides protection, education, healthcare, and advocacy for children all around the world. A staple of their mission is reaching children in the hardest to reach places. Their website has multiple ways to give, including single donations, monthly donations, sponsoring a child and shopping their gift catalog.

Prevent Child Abuse America

Prevent Child Abuse America wants to stop abuse and neglect before it happens. This year, the organization made a commitment to reshape how our country views and handles child abuse by becoming more proactive in its efforts. They provide resources and services through home visits and also advocate for the needs of families at a national, state, and local level. Your family can donate to this charity on a one-time or monthly basis.

North American Council On Adoptable Children (NACAC)

So many children need safe and loving families to adopt them. And the North American Council on Adoptable Children advocates for these children. They promote adoption from foster care, defend children's rights in the welfare system, and train parent advocates, among other things. NACAC has been doing this amazing work since 1974, and your donations will help them continue this work.

Funding Love

So much support for adoptive families stops once the papers have been signed, but adoption can change families in lots of big and small ways throughout the years. Funding Love is an organization helping create strong family bonds through the ultimate magic — a Disney vacation. The non-profit sends adoptive families on an all-expenses paid dream vacation to Disney World, complete with meal plans and shopping money. Your donation can help create those memories for families who need an extra dose of magic.

Children International

Poverty is a reality for many children globally, and Children International is working to end it. During this pandemic, those living in poor conditions have been hit the hardest. Children International builds community centers in these underserved areas, and they offer updates amidst the pandemic about the children and families on their website by country. Your family can make a difference by donating to their work.

KaBOOM

Every child should have a safe space to play and KaBOOM is working to end playspace inequity. They not only build play areas, but also enhance existing spaces by adding things like benches, planters and shading. KaBOOM even offers resources to guide others in creating better, safer play spaces in their communities. Your kids will love donating to help other kids have safe fun!

National Federation Of The Blind

This nationwide charity is an organized group of blind Americans who work so that blind children and adults can have better opportunities. They give resources and support to ensure that the needs of those who cannot see are met. Your donation can help them purchase more white canes, and improve both the Braille literacy rate and the blind employment rate.

Children’s Defense Fund

Helping poor children, children of color, and children with disabilities is where the Children’s Defense Fund focuses their efforts. They believe that “fixing America’s systemic inequities begins with our children.” So they host vaccination events, literacy and cultural enrichment programs, work to prevent crisis situations for children, and so much more. Giving to this foundation would be a blessing to many.

Compassion International

There are so many children around the world that don’t have their basic needs met. For these children, struggle and poverty are their typical everyday experiences. Compassion International has a roster of children that need sponsors. But you can also donate specifically to medical assistance, unsponsored children, moms and babies, and disaster relief.

Wounded Warriors Family Support

Those who serve in our military have committed themselves to keep our country safe. In doing so, some have been injured and some have died, and their families feel the effects of it all. The Wounded Warriors Family Support stands in the gap for those families and military members advocating for their needs and providing resources. They do this through caregiver services, family retreats, veteran training, and mobility services for the wounded. These heroes deserve our respect and help. You can help as well by making a special donation to this charity.

Equal Justice Initiative

Our country has a long history of racial injustice and it has affected many Black and marginalized families. The Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) is a nonprofit that fights wrongful convictions and educates the public through a resourceful toolkit that has reports, interactive lesson plans, and more. EJI also works with communities to “install history markers.” Your family can donate to join them in changing the inequities in our judicial system.

Feeding America

Feeding America is a hunger relief charity. During this season, many families don’t have the means to prepare a decent meal for their children. Feeding America has a network of 200 food banks providing meals to families and combating food insecurity on a daily basis. Any donation made by your family will be helpful in their mission.

Give Kids The World

Give Kids The World is a resort in Central Florida where children who are critically ill and their families can have a sponsored vacation. These families endure physical and emotional struggles and deserve the opportunity to enjoy life on this 89-acre getaway. You can donate to give a child and their family some joy and time away.

Heart To Heart International

Everyone needs access to proper healthcare. Heart to Heart International is providing it globally. They believe that “sustained access to health sets the foundation for individual and community development.” They source volunteers to respond to disasters and distribute resources as well. There are several ways you and your family can donate to their cause.

If you post your act of charity to social on November 30th to social media, be sure to add the hashtag #givingtuesday to show your support of this worldwide movement.

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New Kids Movies & Shows On Netflix In December 2021

A bunch of new kids movies and TV shows are coming to Netflix in December 2021. Here's everything you need to know.

View this story on Romper

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Ohio School District Temporarily Closed Schools Over Staff Shortage

An Ohio school district is struggling to serve students amid a severe staffing shortage brought on by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Despite plans to resume classes the Monday after Thanksgiving break, all nine schools within the Stow-Munroe Falls City School District in northeast Ohio were forced to keep their doors closed after the district failed to find adequate substitutes and transportation staff available to work.

Parents and caregivers of the districts more than 5,000 students were notified of school closures early Monday. In an email to parents, Superintendent Tom Bratten linked the closure to staffing shortages that had been brought on by Covid-19 and other illnesses in the community coupled with a severe lack of substitutes “at all levels of our organization,” The Akron Beacon Journal reported.

“The illness bug, Covid, and everything else right now, it’s hitting our area hard and our district is no exception,” Bratten told WJW Fox 8. “This morning it hit us exceptionally hard across the district.”

Bus drivers and other transportation staff have been particularly hard to find, according to Bratten. “We found ourselves in the position of not being able to get all of our students to school even remotely close to on time, even with doubling up routes, because of the vast shortage of substitutes we’re all dealing with in the school systems right now,” the news outlet reported Bratten said.

To help ease the burden of staff shortages, the Stow-Munroe Falls City School Board recently voted to recognize an Ohio state measure realizing substitute teacher standards. Under the state’s new measure, schools can hire substitutes who do not have post-secondary degrees as long as the individual has been issued a non-renewable temporary substitute teaching license by the Ohio Board of Education. But although the Stow-Munroe Falls School Board has moved to recognize the new measure, some members of the board appear to have done so begrudgingly.

“I’ll be honest, this stinks,” School Board Vice President Jason Whitacre told The Akron Beacon Journal. “[We’re] at a point where there’s such a shortage that basically… if you have a pulse without a record, show up and we’ll have you babysit the children. You can’t expect them to qualitatively teach, so you’re just asking them to not fall asleep.”

Along with teachers and bus drivers, Bratten told The Akron Beacon Journal that the district has also seen a number of cafeteria workers and custodians call in sick. But district administrators don’t blame staff for getting sick or needing time off. In fact, they recognize the pandemic has taken a toll on school staff, leaving them feeling overworked.

“Our people, in general, have been asked to suck it up for two years and honestly, they’re exhausted,” he told the paper. “They’re worn out and they’re run down and it’s catching up to them because they have worked so hard over the last two years and have tried to do everything they can to come to work every single day.”

But Ohio’s Stow-Munroe Falls City School District isn’t the only district to have temporarily closed schools this year due to staffing shortages. According to INSIDER, Seattle Public Schools in Washington and three Denver area school districts in Colorado canceled classes and closed Schools for at least a day in early November after failing to find adequate staff.

In a statement shared with The Seattle Times, Seattle Public Schools said more than 600 teachers had asked for a substitute to fill in for them on the Friday after Veteran’s Day, forcing the district to close. The overwhelming number of requests was “indicative of the fatigue” many school staff members across the country have been feeling after nearly two years of teaching through a pandemic.

While districts across the country will likely continue to grapple with staffing shortages, students within the Stow-Munroe Falls City School District were at least able to return to class on Tuesday.

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Carole Middleton Reveals Christmas Decorating Plans With Grandkids

Carole Middleton seems especially excited about Christmas this year. Perhaps because she’s now a grandmother of five. Perhaps because her son James Middleton recently married, meaning she welcomed her first daughter-in-law to the fold. Or perhaps because she finally gets to celebrate the holidays doing what she loves best — decorating with her grandkids. And her decorating plans this Christmas seem to be all about making the little ones in the family laugh.

As owner of party supply company Party Pieces in the United Kingdom, Middleton is known for being a pretty posh decorator. But when it comes to Christmas, she is just like so many other grandparents around the world. Always thinking about how to keep her grandkids happy. This year, Middleton has some cute little aces up her sleeves in the form of sweet gnomes, or “Tomte” as they are traditionally called in Sweden.

“I’m going to need a few of these cheeky chaps this December, to hide around the house and make my grandchildren laugh,” Middleton explained in a post on her Party Pieces Instagram page. “As much as I love immaculate decorations, we can’t be too serious at Christmas!”

The “Tomte,” or “Nisse” in Norway, are meant to bring good fortune to households who treat them carefully, but are also known to be mischievous and love to play a trick or two when they don’t. Perfect fun for little ones to find hidden around the house.

This year she’ll have five grandkids to include in the decorating fun; 8-year-old Prince George, 6-year-old Princess Charlotte, and 3-year-old Prince Louis from daughter Kate Middleton, as well as 3-year-old Arthur and 8-month-old Grace from daughter Pippa.

That’s also five kids to decorate five Christmas trees, although presumably baby Grace will get a little help. Middleton told The Telegraph in 2018 that she loves to put a Christmas tree in each of her grandchildren’s bedrooms at her country home in Bucklebury to give them a chance to decorate them on their own. In 2020, however, Middleton was unable to host her grandchildren and had to make do with enlisting their help over Zoom. “For me, what really matters is that my family feels connected,” she shared on Instagram at the time. “I normally let my grandchildren help me decorate the tree. This year, I’ll ask them by video call to decide which decoration should go where.”

This year, the royal grandkids will be able to run through her house looking for the little gnomes. And I’ll make a bet they won’t be the only ones laughing.

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How Much Should Grandparents Spend On Grandchildren For Christmas?

A couple months before the holiday season rolls around is when many families start thinking about gifts — planning them, asking their children what they'd like, and floating the idea that lumps of coal will appear under the tree when the kids are misbehaving. Statistically, it's not out of the ordinary for many parents to spend a couple hundred dollars per kid — if they can swing it and want to, of course. But how much do grandparents spend on Christmas gifts? According to research, it's probably more than you expected.

For some perspective, the average U.S. consumer spent $766 in 2020 on gifts during the holiday season, according to surveys by RetailMeNot. Given the COVID-19 pandemic, it might come as a surprise that the average wasn’t less than the year prior. In fact, it was higher, with Americans spending $738 in 2019. Altogether, U.S. consumers spent a record $789.4 billion on the holidays last year, reports the National Retail Federation, which was 8.3% higher than in 2019. Likewise, this year, RetailMeNot projects that the average American will spend $885.76 on holiday gifts, which is 15% more than they did last year.

In terms of spending on children, specifically, the average holiday shopper with kids under 18 plans to spend $276 per child on gifts in 2021, according to a survey by CreditCards.com. With all this in mind, where do grandparents fall on the spectrum?

Holiday Spending By Grandparents

In November 2021, researchers at OppLoans surveyed over 1,700 grandparents across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, asking how much they spent on holiday gifts, if they felt these gifts were appreciated, and whether or not they ever planned to stop giving their grandkids gifts. According to this survey, the average amount spent on Christmas gifts by grandparents is $218 per child. However, grandfathers actually spend more on holiday gifts ($244) than grandmothers spend ($202).

Furthermore, grandparent holiday spending varies depending on where a family lives. Here's a look at the five states with the highest-spending grandparents: Oklahoma, $339; Connecticut, $336; Washington, D.C., $330; Louisiana, $328; and California, $311. The five lowest-spending states were: Minnesota, $128; Washington, $121; North Dakota, $118; Wyoming, $113; and Nebraska, $93.

Other interesting findings from the OppLoans survey include:

• Older grandparents tend to spend less on gifts. Grandparents between 35 and 44 spent $312, grandparents 45 to 54 spent $248, and grandparents 55 and older spent $179.
• 80% of grandparents feel their grandkids appreciate the gifts, 11% feel their grandkids appreciate the gifts a little bit, and 4% feel their grandkids don’t appreciate the gifts at all.
• Clothing, toys, and gift cards are some of the favorite gifts for grandparents to give.

Another source of data offering insight into grandparents’ gift-giving habits can be found in a 2019 study conducted by AARP. According to this study, grandparents spend an average of $2,562 annually on their grandchildren, with 86% of the nation’s grandparents spending an average of $805 on gifts each year. Although this data doesn’t speak to Christmas presents specifically — it likely includes birthday presents and gifts for other occasions — it does go to show that many grandparents across the country invest a chunk of money into gifting their grandkids.

That being said, while these numbers may speak to larger trends that the U.S. is exhibiting, ultimately, there is no specific amount for how much grandparents should spend on grandchildren for Christmas. And the holidays can be special for grandkids regardless of money spent.

Making Christmas Special On A Budget

The holiday season can definitely put pressure, both financial and emotional, on a lot of parents and grandparents. What’s most important, though, is that grandparents and parents aim to make the holidays special and memorable for the kids in their lives, and that certainly does not have to include spending big bucks on gifts — or buying gifts at all.

“Holidays are about building memories, closeness, and family identity — we want our kids to look back on these special days with fondness and a warm sense of, ‘This is how we do things in my family. This is what brings us together,’” Eileen Kennedy-Moore, Ph.D., psychologist and author of Kid Confidence: Help Your Child Make Friends, Build Resilience, and Develop Real Self-Esteem, tells Romper. “Physical gifts can be delightful in the moment, but memories of these are likely to fade.”

When next Christmas rolls around, kids likely won’t remember what they received as holiday gifts last year, but rather how they felt around the holidays. Still, many grandparents can feel obligated to spend a certain monetary value in order to buy presents that will make their grandchildren happy.

“Holidays can put pressure on adults when expectations are too high or just out of sync with current circumstances,” explains Kennedy-Moore. “In some cases, pressure can come from parents believing they need to spend more money than is comfortable or wise because they don't want their kids to feel deprived. There may also be disagreement between parents about how much to spend.”

Kennedy-Moore recommends thinking carefully about what matters most to you and putting your efforts toward that, which may include ditching the activities that no longer match your values or simply don't seem worth the effort — even if they're tradition. Instead, consider creating new traditions that fit you and your grandchildren’s vision of a fun holiday.

“Focus on sharing fun activities,” Kennedy-Moore says. “If you don't see your grandchildren often, talk to their parents to understand what they enjoy doing now. Children's interests can change rapidly! A game you can play together might have more staying power than a toy.”

Activities such as having a holiday-themed movie night, taking a trip to a local museum or sports game, making DIY ornaments, and cooking up a pancake breakfast (or maybe even a pancake dinner) can make for incredibly fun memories to share with your grandkids. Presents are often considered a seasonal norm, but experiences can sometimes be even more meaningful during the holidays.

The research definitely indicates that when it comes to grandparents across the United States, many like to loosen the purse strings for their grandkids for the holidays. But in reality, not everyone can or wants to do that — and that’s OK. What matters most this Christmas is that grandparents prioritize making the holidays special, gifts or no gifts.

Expert:

Eileen Kennedy-Moore, Ph.D., psychologist and author of Kid Confidence: Help Your Child Make Friends, Build Resilience, and Develop Real Self-Esteem

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Best Family & Kids Movies On Amazon Prime In 2021

Whether it's a pre-planned family activity or a last-minute rainy day venture, watching a movie can be a fun way for families to bond. But what to watch? With multiple streaming networks hosting a variety of family-friendly content, just finding a movie to watch can seem like a chore in and of itself. To help make selecting a film easier, Romper has highlighted a ton of family and kids movies available on Amazon Prime right now. Seriously, right now.

No matter what your children's ages or interests, you're sure to find at least one movie that will capture their attention on Amazon Prime. Do your kids love bugs? Check out Minuscule: Valley of the Lost Ants. Are animals more your kids' style? Perhaps they'd enjoy Belle and Sebastian or Marley & Me. Or if it's magical tales of whimsical adventures that draw your children's interest, your family may enjoy Cinderella or Little Nemo: Adventures in Slumberland.

With a catalog of movies ranging from recently released comedies like Troop Zero to beloved animated classics like Babar: The Movie, Amazon Prime is a great go-to source for family movie night. You may even be surprised to find a few films from your own childhood. The best part? This list is merely the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the family and kids' movies available to watch on the streaming network.

Gnomeo & Juliet

Inspired by William Shakespeare’s classic tale of star-crossed lovers, Gnomeo & Juliet sees two neighbors feuding over who has the better garden. But Mr. Montague and Miss Capulet aren’t the only ones fighting — their garden gnomes have also declared a bitter rivalry. One day, however, a blue-hatted Montague gnome named Gnomeo falls in love with a red-hatted Capulet gnome named Juliet. Can their love survive their feuding fellow gnomes?

Watch Gnomeo & Juliet, rated G.

Rugrats Go Wild

Characters from Nickelodeon’s Rugrats collide with the cast of The Wild Thornberrys in Rugrats Go Wild, an animated adventure film that finds Tommy and Chuckie stranded on a remote island. When Tommy and Chuckie get stranded with their parents, they’re relieved to learn the Thornberry family is also on the island. But Tommy finds himself in a bit too much adventure when he and Chuckie set off with Tommy’s talking dog Spike to find Donnie and Eliza Thornberry. Can they connect with the Thornberrys before the leopard Siri gets hungry enough to eat them?

Watch Rugrats Go Wild, rated PG.

Babar: The Movie

Based on characters from Jean de Brunhoff's popular Babar book series, Babar: The Movie is an animated adventure film centered around Babar’s first few days as king of the elephants. The film opens with an older Babar telling his four children a story about how on the day he became king he learned of a rhinoceros attack. Frustrated by the lengthy procedures a king must follow, Babar impatiently sets off into the jungle to confront the attacking rhinos alone. Can the new elephant king thwart off the attacking rhinos by himself or will his impatience put him into danger?

Watch Babar: The Movie, rated G.

The Princess Bride

Dive into the comedic tale of Buttercup, a beautiful young woman who finds true love with a farmhand named Westley. When Westley is presumed dead after a ship he was traveling on is reported to have been attacked by the Dread Pirate Roberts, Buttercup is betrothed to Prince Humperdinck. But before the wedding can take place, three outlaws kidnap the bride-to-be, spurring an adventurous rescue that just might end with Buttercup and Westley being reunited. The Princess Bride is recommended by Common Sense Media for children ages 8 and up.

Watch The Princess Bride, rated PG.

Stuart Little

Based on a beloved children’s novel written by E.B. White, Stuart Little tells the tale of an anthropomorphic mouse who is adopted into a human family. While Stuart’s new parents are loving and devoted, his new older brother George refuses to acknowledge him as part of the family. Even worse, the family’s cat attempts to eat him and schemes to have a mouse couple pose as Stuart’s birth parents in order to see the little mouse cut out of the family. Will Stuart’s adoptive parents figure out the scheme before it’s too late? Stuart Little is recommended by Common Sense Media for children ages 7 and up.

Watch Stuart Little, rated PG.

Madeline

Children who love Ludwig Bemelmans’ Madeline picture book series, will love Madeline, a 1998 family film that pulls inspiration from four Madeline books. Set in Paris, France, in 1956, the film centers around an orphan named Madeline who lives at a Catholic boarding school under the watchful eye of a nun named Miss Clavel. When Madeline falls ill with appendicitis, she befriends Lady Covington, who reveals she too once attended Madeline’s school. Once healed and back at school, Madeline finds the Spanish ambassador has moved his family into the home next to the school. Unfortunately, the Spanish ambassador’s son Pepito is a spoiled boy who makes it his mission to torment Madeline. Can the two children put their differences to the side to save Madeline’s beloved school when the school’s patron threatens to sell it? Common Sense Media recommends Madeline for children ages 6 and up.

Watch Madeline,, rated PG.

The Pebble and the Penguin

In The Pebble and the Penguin, Bashful Hubie is a rather awkward penguin with a giant crush on a female penguin named Marina. Unfortunately, Hubie isn’t the only penguin to see Marina’s beauty. Drake, a bully of a penguin if there ever was one, also wants to win Marina over. And when Hubie finds a beautiful pebble to give to Marina, Drake pushed Hubie into the net of a fisherman. Determined to find his way back home and win Marina’s heart, Hubie sets off on the adventure of a lifetime. Common Sense Media has recommended The Pebble and the Penguin for children 7 and up.

Watch The Pebble and the Penguin, rated G.

Marley & Me

Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson star as newlyweds in the romantic comedy Marley & Me. The film follows them as they move to Florida and adopt a Labrador puppy who quickly proves to be more than the couple can handle. While children will likely delight at Marley’s mischievous nature and adventures in obedience school, parents should be warned that his eventual death could affect some children. Marley & Me is recommended by Common Sense Media for children 13 and older due to conversations around pregnancy and implied sexual situations.

Watch Marley & Me, rated PG

Pokémon 3: The Movie

Children who love all things Pokémon are sure to enjoy Pokémon 3: The Movie, which follows Pokémon trainer Ash Ketchum as he journeys to Greenfield, a town where The Unknown, some of the most mysterious Pokémon creatures, live. When Ash’s mother is kidnapped by The Unknown, Ash and his team must battle their way through a mysterious mansion created by The Unknown to save her. Common Sense Media has recommended Pokémon 3: The Movie for children 5 and up.

Watch Pokémon 3: The Movie, G.

Albion: The Enchanted Stallion

In Albion: The Enchanted Stallion, a 12-year-old girl is taken into an enchanted and magical kingdom of Albion on the back of a black stallion. Once there, the young girl learns she alone is the only one who can save the inhabitants of Albion from their tyrannical ruler. Common Sense Media has recommended this film for children age 10 and up due to some mild violence.

Watch Albion: The Enchanted Stallion, rated TV-PG.

Snow Day

For the Brandston family, one snowy day holds more than enough adventure for everyone. Snow Day stars Chevy Chase as Tom Brandston, a TV weatherman annoyed with the false reports of another flashier reporter. When Brandston’s daughter Natalie wishes for a snow day, she’s delighted to wake up and find school has been canceled. While her brother attempts to catch the attention of his school crush, Natalie and her friends hatch a plan to sabotage the work of the local snowplow in order to have a second snow day. Snow Day has been recommended by Common Sense Media for children aged 5 and up.

Watch Snow Day, rated PG.

Annie: A Royal Adventure

Designed to be a sequel to the original Annie, Annie: A Royal Adventure follows Oliver Warbucks and his newly-adopted daughter Annie as they travel to England with Annie’s dog Sandy to see Daddy Warbucks knighted by the King. The gang bring along Annie’s orphan friend Molly as well as a new friend named Hannah. Once in England, the girls catch wind of an evil noblewoman’s plot to blow up Buckingham Palace while all of England’s heirs to the throne are inside for Daddy Warbuck’s knighting ceremony. Can Annie and her friends foil the woman’s evil scheme or will Annie find herself an orphan once again? Common Sense Media has recommended children 5 and younger wait to watch Annie: A Royal Adventure.

Watch Annie: A Royal Adventure, rated G.

Hansel and Gretel

Based on The Brothers Grimm fairy tale, this version of Hansel and Gretel see the brother and sister abandoned in the forest by their parents when a famine hits their village. The siblings soon stumble upon the house of the witch Griselda. Lured by the home’s delicious decoration, the children become prisoners of Griselda, who aims to fatten Hansel up in order to eat the young boy in a gingerbread. Common Sense Media has recommended this 1988 film version of the popular children’s fairy tale for kids 8 and up.

Watch Hansel and Gretel, rated PG-13.

The Secret of NIMH

Based on Robert O’Brien’s award-winning children’s book, Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, The Secret of NIMH opens just as the plowing season is set to begin. To keep her children safe, widowed field mouse Mrs. Brisby must move her home out of farmer Fitzgibbons’ field before the plowing begins. But when Mrs. Brisby’s young son Timothy is diagnosed with pneumonia and ordered to stay inside for three weeks or risk death, she must seek the help of the rats of NIMH, a colony of escaped rats once subjected to science experiments that increased their intelligence and lifespans. In their attempt to move her home, however, Mrs. Brisby learns of plans to exterminate the rats. Can she gain the courage to save her family and the rats? The Secret of NIMH is recommended for children ages 8 and up by Common Sense Media. Follow it up with The Secret of NIMH 2: Timmy to the Rescue, also on Amazon Prime.

Watch The Secret of NIMH, rated G.

Cinderella

Adapted from Charles Perrault’s classic fairytale, Amazon Prime’s Cinderella is a musical romance starring Camila Cabello, Billy Porter, Idina Menzel, James Corden, Minnie Driver, and more. But although this version of Cinderella still follows the general fairytale generations of children know and love, there are some differences between it and some of the more classic retellings. For example, in Amazon’s adaptation, Cinderella, or Ella, is a talented dressmaker who dreams of becoming financially independent from her wicked stepmother in order to open her own store. When Ella catches the eye of Prince Robert, he assumes the identity of a commoner in order to get close enough to her to invite her to a ball, where she can meet potential future clients. But Ella’s wicked stepmother and stepsisters ruin her dress for the ball and order her to stay home. Can her “Fabulous Godmother” help her salvage the dress and get to the ball in time? Common Sense Media recommends this adaptation of Cinderella for children ages 8 and up.

Watch Amazon Prime’s Cinderella, rated PG.

Opposite Day

Opposite Day attempts to answer the age-old question, what if kids ruled the world? Embarrassed by his parents, young Samuel Benson uses a wishing star to wish kids ruled the world before falling asleep one night. When he awakens, Samuel and his sister find that every adult they know is acting like a child and all the children they know have become important people who run businesses. Can Samuel and his sister find a way to reverse Samuel’s wish while also keeping their own childish parents and grandparents out of trouble? Common Sense Media recommends Opposite Day for children age 7 and up.

Watch Opposite Day, rated G.

Ballet Shoes

Emma Watson stars in Ballet Shoes, a British television film adaptation of Noel Streatfeild's 1936 book of the same name. The film centers on three orphans who are adopted by a traveling paleontologist and sent to live with his niece. There they are able to study at The Children's Academy of Dancing and Stage Training, where they flourish in different mediums. Common Sense Media recommends Ballet Shoes for children ages eight and up.

Watch Ballet Shoes, rated PG.

Hope Dances

Eleven-year-old Hope loves to dance and play softball. But when the chance to audition for a major role in The Nutcracker arrives and a dance instructor questions Hope’s level of commitment, the girl must choose between her love of ballet and her desire to play softball. Can a famous prima ballerina help Hope master the moves she needs to wow the audition judges? Hope Dances has not yet been reviewed by Common Sense Media.

Watch Hope Dances, which is not yet rated.

Oddball

Aside from his eccentric owner Swampy, few people appreciate Oddball. The dog’s mischievous antics have earned him a reputation for being a troublemaker around town. But Swampy is sure Oddball isn’t the troublemaker town leaders have made him out to be and becomes convinced that with a bit of training the dog could protect a group of penguins being threatened by foxes on a nearby island. Can the dog learn some new tricks in time to save the penguins? Directed by Stuart McDonald, Oddball is an Australian film suitable for the whole family.

Watch Oddball, rated PG.

Minuscule: Valley of the Lost Ants

Although Minuscule: Valley of the Lost Ants is a French film, there’s little to no dialogue in the roughly one-and-a-half-hour animated movie. Instead, the film features a wealth of music and sound effects that help tell the story of the day a box of sugar sparked a war between black ants and red ants, and how a tiny ladybug helped one ant save his colony.

Watch Minuscule: Valley of the Lost Ants, which is not rated.

Camp Arrowhead

To help her recover from her mother’s death, Sophie is sent to Lake Arrowhead, a summer camp in the High Sierra landscape. It’s there that she’s invited to join the girl’s archery team and meets coach Percy, who ultimately helps her come to terms with her mother’s passing. The film stars Teen Choice Award recipient and former Dance Mom’s cast member Chloe Lukasiak. Released in 2020, Camp Arrowhead has been reviewed by Common Sense Media.

Watch Camp Arrowhead, which has not yet been rated.

Pocoyo in Cinemas: Your First Movie

Based on the animated children’s television series from Zinkia Entertainment, Pocoyo in Cinemas sees Pocoyo, Nina, Pato, and Elly form a team of super friends. When a villain threatens to disturb the peace of Pocoyo World, only Pocoyo and his League of Super Friends can put things right. At just 50 minutes long, this colorful Pocoyo movie is perfect for younger children like preschoolers.

Watch Pocoyo in Cinemas, which has not yet been rated.

The Daniel Tiger Movie: Won’t You Be Our Neighbor

Based on the popular PBS Kids children’s TV series of a similar name, The Daniel Tiger Movie: Won’t You Be Our Neighbor follows Daniel Tiger as he learns a new family is moving into his neighborhood. Will the family have a child around his same age that he could befriend? Daniel’s family helps him welcome their new neighbors and make sure they feel at home in their new town. Common Sense Media recommends The Daniel Tiger Movie: Won’t You Be Our Neighbor for children ages 3 and up.

Watch The Daniel Tiger Movie: Won’t You Be Our Neighbor, which has not been rated.

The Little Prince

Based on Antoine de Saint-Exupery’s 1943 novella of the same name, The Little Prince is the first full-length animated adaptation of this classic story. It weaves stop-motion animation with computer animation together to tell the story of how one young girl rediscovers her imagination and what it means to be a child after meeting an elderly aviator who tells her the story of the Little Prince. This film is recommended by Common Sense Media for children 10 and up.

Watch The Little Prince, rated PG.

Troop Zero

Viola Davis stars in Amazon's Troop Zero, a family comedy centered around a spunky young girl's quest to join the Birdie Scout youth group and win the group's talent show so her voice can be included on NASA's Voyager Golden Record. While full of funny moments, the film is ultimately one about grit, perseverance, and the value of friendship. Amazon's Troop Zero is recommended for children 10 and up by Common Sense Media.

Watch Amazon's Troop Zero, rated PG.

Bold Eagles

In the animated tale of adventure that is Bold Eagels, poachers begin targeting the endangered animals living inside Eagle Park. Can a talking police car protect the park’s only eagle egg and the tiny eaglet that hatches from it, or will the bird, and the park, find themselves at the end of the line? Common Sense Media recommends Bold Eagles for children ages 6 and up.

Watch Bold Eagels, rated G.

Cats

For an indoor cat like Blanket, the outside world holds a lot of things to be afraid of. But when Blanket's adventurous son Cape sets off on a quest to find his mother in the legendary cat paradise Peachtopia he must brave the world beyond his apartment in order to find him. Because Cats does contain references to death and more than one perilous situation, Common Sense Media recommends it for children ages 9 and up.

Watch Cats, rated PG.

The Stolen Princess

This Ukrainian animated tale of a princess abducted by an evil sorcerer features a humble peasant hero named Ruslan. While not your traditional white knight, Ruslan is madly in love with the princess and risks his life to save her. The Stolen Princess is recommended for families and kids of all ages by Amazon.

Watch The Stolen Princess, which has not been rated.

Little Nemo: Adventures in Slumberland

Directed by Masami Hata and William Hurtz and based on Winsor McCay's comic strip of the same name, Little Nemo: Adventures in Slumberland is a whimsical animated musical that center's around one boy's curious dreams. Kids will love the fun characters Nemo meets in Slumberland while his adventures (and misadventures) are sure to delight the entire family. Little Nemo: Adventures in Slumberland is recommended for children age seven and up due to some nightmare scariness.

Watch Little Nemo: Adventures in Slumberland, rated G.

Where The Red Fern Grows

Based on Wilson Rawls' 1961 children's novel of the same name, Where The Red Fern Grows centers around a 12-year-old boy named Billy who desperately wants a pair of dogs his family can't afford. After working multiple jobs, Billy is finally able to purchase two Redbone Coonhound pups, who he immediately trains to hunt raccoons and eventually enters into a raccoon-hunting contest. Where The Red Fern Grows is rated G but recommended by Common Sense Media for children age 9 and up due to references to death and some mild violence.

Watch Where The Red Fern Grows, rated PG.

Heidi

Based on Johanna Spyri's 1881 children's book of the same name, Heidi tells the story of a young orphan sent to live with her estranged grandfather in the Swiss Alps. But when young Heidi is taken from her grandfather and sent to live as a companion to the daughter of a wealthy family in the city, she longs for her rural life in the mountains and sets out to show her new friend the beauty of her home. The film is recommended for children age seven and up by Common Sense Media.

Watch Heidi, rated G.

Benji

Although first released in 1974, Benji remains a classic family film. It follows a stray dog named Benji who wants to be adopted by the Chapman family children despite their dog-hating father. When greedy criminals kidnap the Chapman children in an effort to exchange them for ransom, Benji must do whatever is necessary to save his human friends and win their father's heart. The film is rated G and recommended by Common Sense Media for children seven and older.

Watch Benji, rated G.

Clifford's Really Big Movie

Based on Norman Bridwell's beloved children's book series and the PBS Kids TV show Clifford the Big Red Dog, Clifford's Really Big Movie follows Clifford as he runs away from home to join a traveling animal circus with his friends. Common Sense Media recommends Clifford's Really Big Movie for children four and up.

Watch Clifford's Really Big Movie, rated G.

House Arrest

Jamie Lee Curtis stars in this 1996 family classic about two children who lock their parents in a basement in an attempt to force them to reconcile and stay married. When other kids in the neighborhood with waring parents hear of their scheme, they want in and soon a whole host of parents are under house arrest. House Arrest has not been reviewed by Common Sense Media.

Watch House Arrest, rated PG.

The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About Camping

In The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About Camping, Nick, Sally, and Fish are taken on a camping trip by The Cat in the Hat. Over the course of their great outdoor adventure, the gang hikes through Fickle Fern Forest, climbs Mount Weewobble, and canoes down the Tickle Drop River. While Common Sense Media has not reviewed this specific Cat in the Hat film, it has rated most other feature films based on this Dr. Seuss book series as being suitable for children as young as three or four.

Watch The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About Camping, which has not yet been rated.

Belle and Sebastian

Based on a French children's novel by Cécile Aubry, Belle and Sebastian follows a 7-year-old orphan boy living in a small village in the French Alps that is terrorized by a mysterious beast. One day while hiking in the mountains Sebastian happens upon the beast, which turns out to be a wild and mud-coated livestock guardian dog. Over time Sebastian befriends the dog, whom he names Belle. But when Belle injures a German Nazi soldier, authorities order the dog be hunted down and killed. Can Sebastian save his friend in time and show the town the dog isn't the beast they believe it to be? Belle and Sebastian has earned Common Sense Media's Common Sense Selection seal and is recommended for children 10 and up.

Watch Belle and Sebastian, rated PG.

Eloise At The Plaza

Fun-loving Eloise can’t help but stumble into adventure after adventure at the hotel she lives in. In Eloise At The Plaza the 6-year-old attempts to play matchmaker for her beloved nanny (played by Julie Andrews). Common Sense Media has generally rated Eloise-related movies as suitable for children older than age 4 or 5.

Watch Eloise At The Plaza, rated G.

Camp Cool Kids

In Camp Cool Kids, Brothers Zach and Spence find themselves on opposing teams, and in opposing friend groups, at their summer camp’s annual campgames. But can Spence find the courage to step out on his own and make new friends while standing up to the camp’s bullies? Common Sense Media recommends Camp Cool Kids for children ages 8 and up.

Watch Camp Cool Kids rated TV-PG.

Tad: The Lost Explorer

As a child Tad, always dreamed of becoming a daring archeologist. What he didn’t expect, however, was for his childhood dream to come true. Although grown-up Tad works in construction, he’s mistaken for a famous professor and whisked away to an adventure in Peru in Tad: the Lost Explorer. Common Sense Media recommends this animated film for children ages 8 and up.

Watch Tad: the Lost Explorer, rated PG.

The Adventures of Petey and Friends

Soar to new heights — and new adventures — with Petey the fighter plane. Hot-tempered Petey must learn to be more dependable. Thankfully, his friends are willing to help. Can Petey learn the skills he needs in time to carry out the most urgent mission assigned to his Desert Sky Air Force Base? Common Sense Media recommends The Adventures of Petey and Friends for children ages 5 and up.

Watch The Adventures of Petey and Friends, which is not yet rated.

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