13 Best Movies Like ‘Shrek’ That Kids Will Love

You have to give comedian Mike Meyers credit. The man knows how to build a movie franchise. First he did it with three Austin Powers films. Then he followed it up with the wildly popular Shrek. To date there are five Shrek films in total. Kids and parents alike just can’t get enough of that silly ogre.

But once you’ve completed viewing all the Shrek sequels, your family might ask, “What next?” Good question, with a great answer. All of these options, that’s what. There are many movies like Shrek. How are these movies like Shrek, you ask? They share similar characteristics. For starters, Shrek was a great film because it was packed with so much humor, much of it directed just as adults as kids. These films follow a similar format. Also, many of these movies have great soundtracks and scores. Shrek managed to take a fantasy fairytale world and weave pop hits into it, a winning combination. In the same way, movies like Trolls and Frozen have great tunes that your whole family will be singing for weeks to come.

But even more than that, these movies are like Shrek in that they each have a heartwarming storyline that tells a universal truth. Whether it's The Croods’ message that family is important or Shrek’s message that you can’t judge a book by its cover, each gives viewers a lesson wrapped up in family-friendly entertainment.

How to Train Your Dragon

One of the main components of Shrek is its setting. It takes place in Shrek’s swamp of Duloc and in the kingdom of Far, Far Away. Similarly, How to Train Your Dragon happens in the Norse island of Berk where the people have been fighting dragons for centuries. Within these landscapes we find our protagonists: Shrek and Hiccup, both misfits. Shrek is an Ogre who everyone is scared of. While Hiccup is the oddball son of the king who just doesn’t fit in. Both have to prove themselves and show others that not only do they belong, they might just be heroes after all.

Stream How To Train Your Dragon, rated PG, on YouTube, Apple TV, and Vudu

Kung Fu Panda

Po is known for being a lazy panda. But his secret dream is to become a kung fu master. Serendipity intercepts when an awful snow leopard threatens Po’s homeland. Po is suddenly chosen to defend his home. But it will take everything kung fu trainer Master Shifu has to get Po fit and ready to battle. With Po played by comedian Jack Black, this movie has the same comedic rhythm as Shrek, with plenty of self-deprecating humor thrown in for good measure. Some of it may go over your kids' heads, but that’s ok. The slapstick will keep them happy while the one-liners offer some adult entertainment along the way.

Stream Kung Fu Panda, rated PG, on Netflix, Prime Video

The Croods

Part of what sends kids into hysterics when watching Shrek is just how much of an ogre he is. Shrek eats onions and pumpkins, he makes candles out of his own earwax, and belches frequently, saying “better out than in.” He’s gross. In the same vein, The Croods, a prehistoric family, are equally bad mannered. Focused entirely on survival, they’re messy and rough and will eat pretty much anything they can lay their hands on. In short: kids can relate. These wild characters show that perfect manners do not a perfect person make. You can be a mess and still be a good family member or friend, a good reminder to kiddos.

Stream The Croods, rated PG, on Peacock, Google Play, Apple TV, YouTube, Prime Video

Madagascar

If an ensemble cast of seriously funny actors is what you’re interested in, much like Shrek (think Mike Meyers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz), then Madagascar is a great choice. Starring Chris Rock, David Schwimmer, Sacha Baron Cohen, and Ben Stiller, this movie is stacked with funny people. And the plot is pretty hysterical too. When Alex the lion, a Central Park Zoo resident, gets a wild hair to see the world, a team of clever penguins will help him break free, and naturally, chaos will ensue. Finally a truly wild animal, Alex will have to figure out what life is for him.

Stream Madagascar, rated PG, on Vudu, Prime Video, Google Play

Mr. Peabody and Sherman

The character of Mr. Peabody, the world’s smartest canine, has been around since “Peabody's Improbable History” segments aired on The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle and Friends. So note, this might be an extra fun movie to watch with grandparents who grew up with this character. In this film, Mr. Peabody has become a father to human boy 7-year-old Sherman. Together they explore history using the Wabac machine. But when Sherman decides to impress a friend and take her to the past in the Wabac, he rips a hole in the space time continuum. Where Shrek plays on pop culture references to create humor, Mr. Peabody and Sherman use history for laughs and both equal comedy gold.

Stream Mr. Peabody and Sherman, rated PG, on Netflix, Prime Video

Home

Want a movie like Shrek that stars an alien? Try Home. The old odd man out trope works again, just as it does in Shrek, in the movie Home. Oh is a Boov, an alien race hellbent on sucking all the resources from planet Earth and steering as far away from its enemies the Gorg as possible. But Oh doesn’t really fit in with his species. He’s desperate for friends. So when he accidentally meets Tip, a human (Rhianna) trying to find her mother in the midst of the alien takeover, they become friends and work together to get, well, home.

Stream Home, rated PG, on Netflix, Prime Video

Trolls

If you have a crew of kids who love to sing along to movies like Shrek, you’d be hard pressed to find a better option than Trolls. The entire film is like a glitter-coated stage show but instead of Rockettes it’s backed with Troll dolls. This all makes sense given Trolls comes from the same creative team that brought audiences Shrek. Go figure. The insanely happy Poppy lives for a song, but her perfect world is threatened when the Bergens, aka the bad guys, look to cook up a few trolls. With Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake as the stars, you can bet the music is fire with this one.

Stream Trolls, rated PG, on Hulu, Prime Video

Trolls World Tour

You thought the first Trolls was good? Then, by all means, cue up Trolls World Tour. This movie is like Shrek in that its sequels are as good (or in this case better) than the first film. Here we discover that the world of Trolls has been divided into musical genres, but if the creatures can just put their chords back together, they can make music as one once again. Sounds convoluted, but it actually makes for a compelling plot with loads of great cover songs like “Rock N Roll” by Haim, “Trolls Wanna Have Fun,” and “One More Time” by Anthony Ramos.

Stream Trolls World Tour, rated PG, on Hulu, Peacock

Monsters, Inc.

Just as Shrek has made a career out of scaring the various creatures he comes across, so too have Sully and Mike Wazowski, a pair of scarers at Monsters, Inc. The business produces energy by scaring children in the middle of the night. But when a tiny human stowaway named Boo follows Sully to the scare floor, things get crazy. Now they’re on a quest to return Boo to her home while avoiding some villainous rivals in the process. Both Shrek and Monsters Inc. take a common childhood fear of monsters and flip it on its head to show they’re not so bad after all.

Stream Monsters, Inc., rated G, on Disney+

Frozen

World building is no easy task. Some cartoons nail it. Others not so much. Both Shrek and Frozen feature fantastical worlds that come to life through the magic of computer animation. But this movie is also like Shrek in that it features a soundtrack that kids go ga-ga for. Based on Hans Christian Anderson’s “Snow Queen” story, the movie is all about what happens to a pair of princess sisters when one with ice powers, Elsa, injures her sister. Trying to protect her, the girls’ parents have Anna’s memories wiped so she doesn’t recall the pain. But in doing so, Elsa goes into hiding, never playing with her sister out of fear or hurting her. Can the two overcome this force? You’ll have to watch the movie to find out.

Stream Frozen, rated PG, on Disney+, Prime Video

Brave

Kings and queens and things have long been the main fodder for fairytales. And even now, centuries after monarchies ruled the Earth, we still can’t get enough of them. That’s why kids like Shrek and will like Brave. The latter follows raven-haired beauty Merida, the daughter of Scottish King Fergus, who wants to be her own woman, but is told she must conform and accept her future as a queen. Not content to just accept her fate, Merida fights back but enlists the help of a witch in the process, a choice that could undo her future. What does real bravery look like? That’s what she must find out.

Stream Brave, rated, on Disney+, Prime Video

Ready to laugh like you did while watching Shrek? And to likely sing along with some great tunes too? Cue up this playlist.

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Boss Baby Brody Lives By This Awesome Awesome Family Motto

You may recognize Boss Baby Brody for his freestyle dance skills, rond de jambe ballet attitude, or even his cameo in a Niall Horan music video. At 5 years old, Brody Schaffer is a beloved figure on social media for crushing gender stereotypes, dancing his heart away, and simply living as his true self. Wherever you’ve seen him, it’s clear that one motto in the Schaffer household always shines through.

“Always extra, never boring,” Brody’s mom, Dani Schaffer, tells Romper is an “unspoken rule” their family lives by. “We integrate this rule into every aspect of our lives from how we present ourselves to the clothes we wear.”

Although Brody is starting kindergarten, he has millions of followers across TikTok and Instagram. He’s also the face of a new fashion campaign for Neon Rebels, a children’s clothing line that celebrates kids’ individuality and self-expression. “With this campaign, Brody is free to express himself and be himself through his style,” Schaffer says. “Their clothing is pretty gender-neutral, and it’s suited for Brody perfectly.”

Neon Rebels, Maisonette’s newest private label, recently launched online and features colorful shirts, skirts, shorts, dresses, and more. A number of items also feature rainbows, which Brody has incorporated into many of his own outfits and accessories.

Like most kids, Brody likes to get creative with his school outfits and that “always extra, never boring” family mantra extends to the classroom, too. “If letting them wear piles of mismatched pieces or rainbow pieces and tutus makes them happy and excited for school, so be it!” Schaffer says.

Together, with her husband Bobby, the Schaffers have worked to instill values of self-love and individuality within their four children. “Bobby and I have always taught our children to support, respect, and love one another, and to embrace each other’s individuality,” Schaffer shares.

Brody’s love for fashion and dance, for example, came from his sister, Dylan. Schaffer says when he was younger he would dress up in his sister’s dance costumes and scream at Alexa to play his favorite soundtrack from the movie Frozen, which is how he got his Boss Baby nickname. “From the time Brody was able to walk and talk, his mission was to get everyone on the dance floor,” the mom of four recalls.

As an influencer, Brody has been changing the narrative on gender norms since first going viral in 2019 when his mother posted of video of then 4-year-old Brody dancing to The Nutcracker. The video gave him national attention and he was signed to WWE talent agency shortly after.

It’s that authenticity that his mother and millions on social media love. “You don’t see any 5-year-olds trying to be something they’re not — that’s the beauty of kids!” Schaffer says. “They’re real! No masks, no filters…just them, doing their thing, whatever that may be.”

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Is Publix Open On Labor Day 2021? These Are Their Holiday Store Hours

Labor Day is quickly coming, and woot, you can’t wait for that three-day weekend. Nothing to do but soak up the sun, hang with the kiddos, and eat copious quantities of grilled goodness. But all it takes is for one guest to bring along a plus one (or five) you weren’t planning on, and suddenly, you’re scrambling to see if you can get your hands on some extra macaroni salad. As you jump into the car, it’s best to know ahead of time: is Publix open on Labor Day?

Labor Day is one of those few holidays (like Columbus Day or Thanksgiving Day) that doesn’t have a date set in stone. And as such, it can creep up on you if you’re not watching. This year, though, Labor Day is on Monday, September 6, since it’s the first Monday in September. It’s kind of late this year, seeing as how it can be any day from September 1 through September 7. But food first: will you be able to get a Chicken Tender Platter to tide the kids over come Labor day? Well, the public will be pleased, because Publix is open on Labor Day.

Don’t feel like cooking? Just head to Publix’s deli section, where you can find freshly prepared foods that will feed a crowd. For $6.99 per pound, you can get some smoked pulled pork, which feeds about 2-3 people. It’s served hot so that all you need to do is grab some buns, and you’ve got a smokin’ sandwich. And speaking of sammies, you can get a whole selection of subs at the deli for $34.99; it’s your choice of three different kinds of bread (white, wheat, or Italian 5-grain), meat (think turkey, roast beef, ham, or the Ultimate), and cheese (like American white or yellow, provolone, or Swiss).

If meat is what you’re after, you’ve found your match at Publix. Publix is also gearing up for your grilling needs, with Boneless New York Strip Steaks ($8.99 per pound) or Lean Ground Beef Burgers or Slider Burgers for $6.49 lb. It is offering $5 off your next delivery or curbside pickup with an order of $35 or more. Boneless and Lean Pork Loin Country-Style Ribs could also grill up very nicely, too.

But here’s something else that people probably don’t think about on Labor Day Publix’s food runs: diapers. Yes, watch your baby have a massive blow-out, and then discover that the extra package of diapers you thought you had, well, you don’t. That’s when you’ll be grateful for a supermarket like Publix’s being open so you can get your hands on some diapers and wipes to clean up that little tush.

You never know what you can potentially run out of until it happens. That’s why having a nearby Publix open to do some last-minute shopping just might take some of the labor out of your Labor Day festivities.

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So You Want To Help The Women & Girls Of Afghanistan

As the world watches with dismay at the stunningly speedy Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, politicians, media pundits, and the American public are suddenly concerned about the state of Afghan women’s safety and security. As an American doing solidarity work with Afghan women activists for two decades, I find myself once more on the receiving end of phone calls and emails inquiring about the adoption of Afghan orphans and the offers of used clothes — just as I was in the early years of the war when our papers were filled with headlines about Afghan women’s oppression.

There’s a uniquely American propensity to look for quick fixes when disaster strikes, but Afghanistan needs long-term solutions, not your hand-me-downs. The entire war has been a disaster, not just the withdrawal. Throughout, the United States has embraced mujahideen fundamentalist warlords and/or the misogynist Taliban, to the detriment of ordinary Afghans.

After the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, President George W. Bush’s administration made the case that the American occupation of Afghanistan would not only remove a safe haven for terrorists, but also help bring freedom to oppressed Afghan women and girls. To the naïve backers of war, it sounded like a noble plan and helped assuage concerns about a protracted occupation.

When girls and women have ample access to education and opportunity for fair employment, it’s not only their health and safety that flourishes, but that of society as a whole. By such measures, there has been negligible progress in Afghanistan over nearly 20 years of war and occupation.

When the United States first invaded and occupied Afghanistan in 2001, the Taliban had been enforcing medieval-era edicts against women and girls, such as banning their education, employment, and right to assembly. Afghan women were suffering from some of the worst indicators of health and well-being globally. The maternal mortality and child mortality rates in Afghanistan were among the highest in the world. In 2002, UNICEF concluded, “Afghanistan may well be the worst place in the world for a woman to become pregnant.”

Modern-day institutions measure a society’s health by the well-being of its women. When girls and women have ample access to education and opportunity for fair employment, it’s not only their health and safety that flourishes, but that of society as a whole. By such measures, there has been negligible progress in Afghanistan over nearly 20 years of war and occupation. Take the issue of education, which was touted by the Bush administration as an area of focus. True, some schools were built, although attendance was always challenging. And most schools benefited those who were already privileged. Worse, many schools were simply attacked or burned down.

Eight years into the occupation, Human Rights Watch pointed out that “women have not been a central priority for the [U.S.-backed Afghan] government or for international donors.” Afghan girls faced constant obstacles to education. According to a 2009 Reuters report, acid attacks, murder, torching of schools, sexual assault, and violence against female students were all still keeping girls from their education. In 2018, The International Women’s Media Foundation published a lengthy report in Time headlined, “Why Afghanistan Is Still the Worst Place in the World to Be a Woman.” For years, organizations like the Revolutionary Association of the Women of Afghanistan (RAWA) had been warning the United States to stop embracing misogynists, but their pleas went unheard.

Afghan women were so desperately unhappy midway during the U.S. occupation that a new and terrifying trend emerged: self-immolation. Afghan hospitals opened special burn units to treat the victims who were setting themselves on fire to escape the hell that their society and country had become.

Since 2000, I have been working closely RAWA, the oldest feminist organization in the country which, for years, has been calling for an end to the U.S. occupation. In December 2001, months after the United States invaded, RAWA sent a statement to be read at a Congressional hearing calling for “multilateral disarmament and the establishment of a secular democratic government in which women may once again participate fully in public life.”

RAWA also warned against working with anti-Taliban fundamentalist groups, saying, “Many of those now involved in what has come to be called the Northern Alliance have the blood of our beloved people on their hands, as of course do the Taliban.”

The international community could have backed disarmament efforts. The United States could have focused most of its financial help into women’s rights initiatives rather than lining the pockets of warlords or bribing the Taliban. Leaders of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and in the United States could have followed the advice of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC) in demanding justice for war crimes at the International Criminal Court. None of these things were done.

While most Americans might have been caught off guard by the Taliban’s return, to those of us who were paying close attention, it is not only unsurprising but utterly predictable that the war would end with the Taliban back in charge.

Instead, every step of the way, successive U.S. presidents engaged in deal-making with misogynist fundamentalists, embracing violent warlords in the first half of the occupation and the Taliban in the second half. President Bush welcomed into the Afghan government anti-Taliban mujahadeen warlords who have a bloody record of mass violence. After President Barack Obama’s initial engagement with the Taliban, President Donald Trump continued talks with the same ostensible “enemy,” drawing up an agreement which President Joe Biden then took to the finish line earlier this year. Now, the Taliban has billions of dollars worth of military equipment and weapons at its disposal, bought and paid for by American taxpayers.

While most Americans might have been caught off guard by the Taliban’s return, to those of us who were paying close attention, it is not only unsurprising but utterly predictable that the war would end with the Taliban back in charge. RAWA’s view of the U.S. forces is that “their aim was never to make Afghanistan safer.” The group maintains: “In the past 20 years, one of our demands was an end to the US/NATO occupation and even better if they take their Islamic fundamentalists and technocrats with them and let our people decide their own fate.”

Today, RAWA is grateful for individual American donations to help support internally displaced refugees fleeing the Taliban. But that is a short-term goal. The much more complicated long-term goal of building secular democracy has no easy quick fix or bite-sized solution. It requires demanding Western governments to stop using violence as a tool and start supporting those internal forces non-violently fighting for freedom, democracy, safety, and security. That includes funding disarmament campaigns, backing international Afghan-led war crimes prosecutions, and prioritizing grassroots pro-democracy movements over armed fundamentalist militias. It also, most importantly, offers a lesson to Americans that women’s freedoms cannot be won through violence and war.

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Is Trader Joe’s Open On Labor Day 2021? These Are Their Holiday Store Hours

Summer is winding to a close, and that unofficial seasonal segue into September is starting. What better way to say goodbye to those dog days of summer than with a backyard bash full of yummy foods you won’t eat again for a while? But if you’re like most people, the number of hot dogs you have never seems to equal your bun situation. So that’s when you might be asking yourself: is Trader Joe’s open on Labor Day? Because the kid who gets the bunless hot dog is probably not going to be too happy.

The first Monday in September is always designated as Labor Day. While schools and some businesses might be closed for the federal holiday, many commercial stores, thankfully, aren’t. That includes Trader Joe’s, which is open on Labor Day. Even better: Trader Joe’s is holding regular store hours, so when you finally realize that you’ve run out of mustard or mayo, you still have time to get it.

The typical fare you’ll find people eating during Labor Day often mimics what they’ve eaten all summer, like grilled meats, cool salads, and icy cold drinks. But sometimes Labor Day weekend is insanely hot, and you might not want to cook at all. Since Trader Joe’s is open on Labor Day, you can welcome in some yummy relief in the form of their freshly prepared foods. You might want to grab a Southwestern Chopped Salad Kit, that comes with tortilla strips, pepitas, cotija cheese and an avocado dressing to tantalize your tastebuds. And while you’re going through the aisles, be sure to drop a bag of Gluten Free Hamburger Buns into your cart, too. And when you need something to wash it all down with, you can sip on the Watermelon Cucumber Cooler, 64 fl. ounces of refreshing organic goodness.

But let’s say that you want to take your Labor Day gathering to the next level. Trader Joe’s offers some delish recipes that don’t require a ton of work, like its Peach Coleslaw, which boasts five fab ingredients that are all available at the store. You’ll want to fire up the grill for the Sweet & Spicy Grilled Chicken Thighs, a recipe that’s minimal on ingredients (there are just four!), but maximizes flavor. There’s even a how-to video on grilling bone-in chicken thighs to juicy perfection.

So whether it’s just a small gathering with friends and fam, or a whole block party filled with food, Trader Joe’s has the apps (and the store hours) to make it all possible.

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The Best Pokémon Halloween Costumes For The Whole Family

Pokémon may have been invented in 1995, but the Japanese media franchise endures and continues to win over new fans with its so-called “pocket monsters.” That’s why 26 years after the fictional Pokémon universe came on the scene, kids are still begging their parents for all things Pikachu, Squirtle, and Raichu-related. Naturally, that includes costumes and with the spookiest season of the year on the horizon, you can bet there will be requests for Pokémon Halloween costumes.

But Pokémon fanaticism isn’t limited to the under 12 set. Adults who grew up with the game are equally enamored, which means you can find Pokémon Halloween costumes in sizes ranging from babies to adults. In fact, you could outfit your entire family in the best Pokémon character gear thanks to the fact that 898 Pokémon characters exist! Pikachu continues to win the popularity contest, which means you’ll have no trouble finding a variety of options of Pokémon Halloween costumes for that character. But do some digging and you can find other fan favorites too.

Can’t find what you’re looking for? When in doubt, check Etsy. Chances are there’s a maker on there who has just the Pokémon Halloween costume you’re looking for and if not, they might be willing to negotiate to make you the character of your dreams, provided you ask nicely.

We only include products that have been independently selected by Romper's editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

The Best Pikachu Costume for Kids

Child Pokémon Costume

Sizes 2T - 12Y

Kidshoo

Pikachu tends to be the star of the show when it comes to Pokémon. The mouse-like yellow creature is certainly the most recognizable. If your child wants to dress like the official mascot of the game, never fear. There are dozens of costumes to choose from. This one, however, makes a great choice because it’s super comfy — sort of like a snuggly body suit complete with hood. The onesie naturally has a matching tail to give the look its full effect. It’s also made of flannel, a warm fabric which is a big plus for any trick-or-treaters in colder climates.

The Best Pikachu Costume for Adults

Adult Pikachu Costume

Sizes 42 - 46 Mens

Oriental Trading

If you’re reliving your own childhood love of Pokémon through your children’s newfound passion for the anime series, then, by all means, outfit yourself in a Pikachu costume for adults. This large jumpsuit can fit a men’s size 46, making it roomie for a wannabe-Pikachu dad wishing he could live inside his favorite video game for a day. The hood features Pikachu’s beloved ears and that cute smile, so no one will get you confused with a giant banana. This costume also includes Pikachu’s lightning bolt tail too. You’ll have to find your own shoes, however. Those aren’t included in this costume set.

The Best Pickachu Costume for Baby

Baby Pikachu Costume

Sizes 0M - 26M

Lucky Onesie

Babies need not feel excluded from the Pokémon Halloween costume fun this year. They too can be mini Pikachus! There are Pikachu outfits for even the smallest among us. This one is especially cozy thanks to its soft onesie design. In fact, your baby won’t know the difference between this and a regular zip-up onesie as this outfit nixes Pikachu’s tail in order to make infants more comfortable. A soft hood will keep baby’s ears warm while completing the full Pikachu effect with ears, rosy cheeks, and that knowing smile. And with a zipper that reaches halfway up the back, changing a diaper mid-festivities is a breeze.

The Best Tutu Pikachu Costume

Tutu Pikachu Costume

Sizes Baby - Child

LanYapCrafts Etsy

This may not be the typical Pikachu look, but if you have a child who prefers their costumes have a certain ballerina flair, then you’ll kill two birds with one stone with this look. This Pokémon Halloween costume is a tutu take on Pikachu. Made from tulle and felt, the leotard features Pikachu’s face with the character’s ears sticking out in front of the arm straps (which, it should be noted, are adjustable). A lightning bolt tale sits above the actual skirt itself, so you still have all the classic components of the character with the addition of a little prima ballerina fun.

The Best Gym Trainer Costume

Gym Trainer Pokémon Costume

Sizes XS -3XL

EZ Cosplay

For those who don’t know, Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield are Nintendo Switch spin-off games of the original Pokémon game. And they come with their own characters, including Gym Trainers who help their Gym Leaders on their Gym missions. Following? If your child wants to take on the persona of a gym Trainer, there’s a costume for that, of course. This uniform, featuring top, pants, and gloves, looks just like the Gym trainers as your observant kid will likely note. That’s right, there’s no thumb on the gloves! The polyester fabric makes this uniform durable enough to withstand your child’s pretend training sessions.

Ash Costume

Ash Halloween Costume

Size Large

Halloween Costumes

Ash Ketchum (Satoshi in Japanese) is the star of Pokémon’s manga and anime series. He’s a Pokémon trainer with big dreams of one day becoming a Pokémon master. If your kid wants to be the hero of their favorite series, then an Ash costume is in order. This one will do the trick. Ash’s look features a baseball cap, blue and white jacket, and all important green fingerless gloves. If you really want to make the look authentic, add a Pokeball as well. With 63% five star ratings, you can count on this costume answering your child’s Ash aspirations come October 31.

Adult Pokéball Costume

Pokéball Costume

One Size

Halloween Costumes

For encouraging parents who can’t wrap their heads around the plot of Pokémon, but still want to show up for their kids, there’s this Pokeball costume. You can even argue with your kid that the Pokeball is the real star of show since it’s what’s used to catch and contain Pokémon. Isn’t that the ultimate Pokémon Halloween costume after all? Even better, when it comes to costumes, it doesn’t get more comfortable than this. Wear black pants and a black long sleeve shirt, then pull this Pokeball sandwich board over your head. That’s it. You’re done. Ready to trick-or-treat.

Grookey Kid Costume

Grookey Pokémon Costume

Sizes 10 - 12

Halloween Costumes

When it comes to Pokémon Halloween costumes, Grookey is another popular option: the monkey-like “Grass-type Starter Pokémon of the Galar region.” Grookey is special because this character, at least in the anime, can restore weakened plants and its green fur can help create energy. Rare in the world of Pokémon, that makes it all the more beloved. Plus, just look at a picture of this little one, it’s darling! What kid wouldn’t want to be Grookey? With this costume, their fantasies can come to life. The hooded jumpsuit is simple and comfortable, but has all the key Grookey features including his tail and leaf-shaped hair tufts.

Adult Snorlax Costume

Snorlax Pokémon Costume

Sizes Child - Adult

Halloween Costumes

A Snorlax is a member of the Pichu Brothers' Posse, according to Bulpapedia. And it’s a fascinating character. “Its stomach is so strong, even eating moldy or rotten food will not affect it,” the Pokémon site reports. That might just be a power you want to channel come Halloween, which is why this Snorlax costume comes in adult size. Sort of like wearing a sleeping bag, this roomie onesie also features wrist cuffs and a soft sculpted nose on the hood to make it more realistic. Buttons, not a zipper, make this easy to take on and off, but who would? It’s the ultimate napping suit once you’ve polished off all that Halloween candy.

Kid Charizard Costume

Charizard Kigurumi Costume

One Size

Halloween Costumes

Flying, wing attacks, and flame-throwing are all part of Charizard’s repertoire, big selling points for a kid looking for a great Pokémon Halloween costume. They can feel confident in this take on the classic character. This suit is one piece and is made of a fleece/polyester combo. Buttons make it easy to put on and a hood with an embroidered Charizard face nails the look. Of course, it also features small bat-like wings kids can show off by spreading them out via hooks on the corner. And, naturally, it comes with a tail that’s attached to a flame for ultimate authenticity.

Child Charmander Costume

Kid Charmander Costume

Sizes 3T - 8

GhillieRains Etsy

Fleece is an ideal fabric for cosplay looks. It’s warm, it’s soft, it won’t make your child complain about itching and scratching. That’s why this Charmander costume is great: when a child moves the tail moves with it. But unlike mass produced onesies, this look is actually three pieces, with removable mittens and velcro hood, ideal for when Halloween fun gets too hot and your kiddo needs a little air. Lining also ensures optimum comfort for any child that wants to rock this reptilian Pokémon costume. Bright orange, you’ll be easy to spot your little Pokémon when they take to the streets on Halloween night.

Squirtle Kid Costume

Squirtle Pokémon Costume

One Size

DotDesign Etsy

By far one of the best named characters thanks to the portmanteau of turtle and squirt, Squirtle is a water-type Pokémon who, it will come as no surprise, squirts water from its mouth when threatened. Sound like something your kid might do. Then let them be Squirtle for Halloween. This Etsy costume has you covered with a series of handmade felt components including a squishy stuffed shell! There are even felt feet you attach to your child’s shoes to make it even more Squirtly. But note, because this is such a detailed costume, the vendor needs 4 weeks notice to make it on time.

Kid Sobble Costume

Kid Sobble Costume

Sizes S - XL

Party City

Another water Pokémon like Squirtle, Sobble is a blue lizard-esque creature with sniper abilities. And you know what that means. Kids love this blue character. So, of course, there’s a costume to pretend to be Sobble this Halloween. Made out of plush material, this is another onesie jumpsuit that fastens via hook-and-loop closures across the front. The hood holds Sobble’s recognizable yellow fin and below that is the character’s embroidered face. This costume is made of polyester and can only be handwashed, so warn your kiddo to snack carefully on all of their Halloween goodies to avoid any difficult stains.

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The 7 Best Toddler Utensils

Toddlers often want to do everything on their own, and eating is no exception — which is why it's important to choose the best toddler utensils for a safe and easy mealtime. While CDC guidelines state that babies can use a spoon to feed themselves starting at 10 to 12 months and a fork soon after, they also suggest that many initial attempts will be unsteady at first. That’s why top-rated toddler utensils feature easy-to-grip handles designed specifically for little hands, with some options made from softer materials that are gentler on the gums for those still working on their coordination.

While standard metal silverware might be the eventual goal, your toddler might find it easier to start with silverware made from softer materials like bamboo, recycled plastic, or wheat straw. As your child’s table skills progress, they can give stainless steel utensils a try. Some stainless steel utensils will have grips made from other materials that might be easier for a newbie to hold, while others are essentially toddler-size adult utensils shaped for little hands (aka perfect for transitioning to adult silverware). Utensil manufacturers often provide a recommended age range, if you find it helpful to consider.

You should also take the size and shape of the utensils into account. Some utensils are curved so that the eating surface won’t touch the table, or hit the ground when dropped. A handle with a stop can help overeager eaters who might accidentally place the utensil too far into their mouths. Most toddler utensils have a shorter, ergonomically designed handle, but some also have scoop-like tip that makes it easier for beginners to dip the utensil into a bowl of food. Toddler utensils can come in sets with multiple pieces, or be packaged individually, so no matter which features you prefer, make sure they’re available in your preferred format.

Finally, if you don’t want to spend a lot on utensils your child will use for a limited time, a less expensive batch of utensils might be just the ticket. But whether you want to invest in pricier utensils or buy a cheap multipack, these highly-rated toddler utensils are beloved by tons of parents — and they’re all dishwasher safe to boot.

1. A Budget-Friendly Set Of 16 Toddler Utensils

TOMY The First Years Take & Toss Flatware For Kids (16 Pieces)

Amazon

• Recommended age: 9 months and up (although the CDC recommends children start feeding themselves with utensils at 10-12 months and up)

With 16 pieces for under $5, it’s hard to beat the price of this plastic flatware set, which comes with eight forks and eight spoons in assorted colors. The price point makes the utensils an ideal choice both for family meal or on-the-go eating, since it’s not a big deal if you lose a few, and they’re safe to recycle after use if you want to toss them. The handles have a textured grip and a finger groove that makes it easier for little hands to hold. The plastic material is softer than metal for beginner self-feeders, and fork’s rounded tines and spoon’s scoop shape make these a cinch for toddlers to use. When you’re ready to reuse them, they’re safe to wash in the dishwasher.

In addition to the flatware set, the brand also sells matching storage bowl sets and infant spoons, if you care to add those to your order.

Helpful Amazon review: “Good quality for the price. Able to withstand multiple uses, holds up to the high temperatures of the dishwasher, and cheap enough that I'm not sad when we lose one. My toddler thinks it's fun to throw away utensils so I expect these will disappear quickly but if they happen to hang around they are quite durable and should last without issue. [...] The handle is curved and has finger grooves that encourages a solid grip. The spoon and fork base have a concave shape that helps to hold food on. Perfect for travel, daycare, or for the toddler that enjoys trashing your dishes. I would definitely buy them again.”

2. A Fan-Favorite Spoon & Fork Set

Munchkin Raise Toddler Fork & Spoon Set (4 Pieces)

Amazon

• Recommended age: 12 months and up

This fork and spoon set from Munchkin makes mealtime fun for your toddler as they transition to metal utensils — and with more than 18,000 Amazon reviews and a 4.8-star rating overall, it’s safe to say lots of parents are big fans, too. The set includes two forks and two spoons, each of which has a stainless steel tip, which means they might not be right for toddlers just starting to feed themselves, but could be a great choice for more coordinated self feeders. That said, the ergonomically-shaped plastic base has a soft grip for little hands, and each utensil has a built-in barrier that keeps the tips of the utensils from touching the floor or table when your little one sets them down or drops them. This barrier also acts as a stop so your child doesn’t stick the utensil too far into their mouth and choke.

The set is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. You can buy it in sets of four blue and green or pink and purple-colored utensils, or in six-packs of all blue or all purple.

Helpful Amazon review: “Easy for [my] toddler to hold, keeps utensil off the table when she puts it down, prevents toddler from accidentally putting utensil too far into her mouth.”

3. A Plastic Fork & Spoon For Younger Toddlers

Grabease First Self Feed Toddler Utensils Set (3 Pieces)

Amazon

• Recommended age: 6 months and up (although the CDC recommends children start feeding themselves at 10-12 months and up)

Ideal for younger toddlers, these Grabease utensils come with a spoon, fork, plus a carrying case for on-the-go eating. Made of safe, durable plastic, the ergonomic handles are designed to be easy for small hands to hold and grip. The softer material is safe for toddlers who are new to self-feeding, and the design includes a stop that prevents choking. The utensil set comes in a bunch of different colors, and can be washed in the dishwasher between uses.

Helpful Amazon review: “My [toddler] was having trouble getting food from plate to mouth with the typical sized toddler spoons. These solved that! She has no problem getting the food all the way into her mouth without spilling everything off in the air.”

4. A Set Of Stainless Steel Utensils For Older Toddlers

ANNOVA Kids Silverware Children's Safe Flatware Set For LunchBox (6 Pieces)

Amazon

• Recommended age: 24 months and up

Annova’s six-piece flatware set, which includes three forks and three spoons, is a great way for toddlers to learn how to use grown-up utensils. The traditional stainless steel design is better for more advanced eaters, but the utensils are sized for smaller hands. All pieces of the mirror-polished set have cute animal designs on the handles and are dishwasher safe, making clean-up a breeze. The manufacturer promises the pieces will not scratch, break, chip, rust, or dent.

Helpful Amazon review: “These are the perfect size for my 3 year old who still struggles a bit with the full sized silverware. Quality is excellent and he is very comfortable using these. I find that he doesn't just drop everything off of the spoon when he uses it...it actually works properly! And the fork is shorter so the food doesn't get caught too far back that he can't eat it, like with regular sized forks. Very happy with these!”

5. These Toddler Utensils Made From Recycled Plastic

RE-PLAY Toddler Feeding Spoon & Fork Set (8 Pieces)

Amazon

• Recommended age: all ages (although the CDC recommends children start feeding themselves at 10-12 months and up)

The RE-PLAY utensil set, which includes four forks and four spoons, is made from recycled plastic milk jugs, giving your little one an eco-friendly way to eat her food. Deep scoops keep food in place on each spoon, while each fork’s rounded edges won’t poke tender gums. The handles are shaped to be easily gripped by toddler hands. The set is available in a bunch of different color combinations, is safe to clean in your dishwasher, and is stackable if you want to store it in a drawer.

Helpful Amazon review: “This toddler spoon and fork is the easiest for my toddler to use! The other brands were too flat and difficult to keep food on the spoon. These are more of a little bowl shape and he can get the food to his mouth without spilling it!”

6. A Fork & Spoon For Toddlers That Will Look Nice On The Table

mushie Fork & Spoon Set (2 Pieces)

Amazon

• Recommended age: not stated (although the CDC recommends children start feeding themselves with utensils at 10-12 months and up)

Toddler utensils aren’t typically the most aesthetically pleasing thing on the dinner table, but this beautiful fork and spoon set from mushie breaks the mold. The set hails from Denmark, where it was specifically designed to be durable, elegant, and safe, so your little one can eat in style. The set comes in assorted muted colors, with matching cups, plates, and bowls available for purchase on the same product page. It’s made from dishwasher-safe polypropylene plastic that shouldn’t be too tough on your child’s gums. That said, the set seems to be designed for older toddlers and children, since the shape matches adult silverware a little more closely than most.

Helpful Amazon review: “Great fork and spoon for our 2yo. She is able to use both the fork and spoon despite the fact they are a bit longer than the regular toddler size. They are easy to grab and manipulate. The fork has flexible "teeth" ([...] and [is] hard and thin enough to go through soft food.

7. A Set Of Toddler Utensils Made From Wheat Straw

Boieo Kids Spoons And Forks Set (6 Pieces)

Amazon

• Recommended age: not stated (although the CDC recommends children start feeding themselves with utensils at 10-12 months and up)

The Boieo Kids spoon and fork Set are made from a natural wheat straw material. This set of utensils has nonslip handles and is great for kids to use as they learn how to use spoons and forks. The set comes in three colors: pink, green, and blue, and is free of latex, lead, BPA, and phthalates. The manufacturer doesn’t specify if the utensils are dishwasher safe, but reviewers state that they were able to put them through a wash cycle without issues.

Helpful Amazon review: “Just started transitioning my 17-month-old toddler to spoons & forks that are shaped like regular utensils. This was a great set! I really like the colors and texture. The size is perfect for her. The spoon is also wide enough so she can drink soup on her own. The tips of the fork is still smooth and round enough so that it is still safe to use. Highly recommended.”

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