15 Favorite Halloween Movies for Kids With Learning Ideas

When the air turns crisp and the pumpkins start to glow, it’s the perfect time to cozy up together for a family movie night. If you’re looking for Halloween movies for kids that mix a little spookiness with a lot of heart (plus a sprinkle of learning ideas) you’re in the right place. Whether you want light-hearted family-friendly flicks or some gentle scary movies for kids that are more middle-school appropriate, this list has some great options.

From playful monster tales to gentle ghost stories, these picks bring the spirit of Halloween right to your living room and they’re packed with themes that invite curiosity, conversation, and creativity. To help you keep track of what you watch, we’re also including a printable Halloween Movie Tracker with space for your crew to rate each movie with friendly ghost icons. Great for journaling, memory-making, or just settling the debate on which movie was is your favorite!

Fun & Friendly Halloween Movies for Younger Kids

Here are some kid-friendly Halloween movies perfect for little ghosts and goblins who want to enjoy spooky fun without too many scares.

1. Pooh’s Heffalump Halloween Movie (2005, G)

Join Winnie the Pooh and his friends as they explore the Hundred Acre Wood on a spooky Halloween night. This gentle, heartwarming and fun movie teaches about courage, friendship, and facing your fears with kindness. The lovable characters and sweet story make it perfect for little ones.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Make a nature collage using colorful fall leaves, acorns, and pinecones.
• Learn about animals associated with autumn like owls, bats and spiders.
• You could even take a nighttime “animal watch” walk to spot local critters!

2. Monsters, Inc. (2001, G)

Everyone’s favorite monsters Sulley and Mike work at a factory that ‘scares’ kids – but it turns out laughter is the real power! This Pixar classic is a hit with the whole family. It’s packed with humor, friendship, and a peek into how fears can sometimes be misunderstood. Billy Crystal and John Goodman bring these monsters to life with unforgettable voices, making it a hit with both little and big kids alike.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• If your kids love spooky stories, encourage them to write their own fun monster tales.
• Get creative and make monster masks using paper plates, paint, and googly eyes.
• Have a “laugh contest” to see who can come up with the silliest monster roar or funniest scary story.
• For older kids, write a short story or drawing a comic strip about a monster who’s really a big softie deep down.

3. Spooky Buddies (2011, G)

If your kids adore dogs and just the right amount of Halloween fun, Spooky Buddies is a perfect pick! These adorable talking puppies team up to stop a ghost dog from causing trouble on Halloween night. Packed with friendship, silly antics, and gentle spooky moments, it’s a fun and heartwarming movie that’s just right for little ones. Plus, you might recognize some familiar voices behind these lovable pups!

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Create your own “hero dog” story.
• Make Halloween-themed pet costume together.

4. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966, G)

For those looking for classic Halloween movies, you don’t have to look further that Charlie Brown. This timeless Halloween special follows the Peanuts gang as they await the arrival of the mysterious Great Pumpkin on Halloween night. With gentle humor and heartfelt moments, it’s a sweet introduction to autumn traditions and childhood wonder. Perfect for cozy family viewing.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Explore autumn traditions and harvest festivals.
• Create leaf rubbings or pumpkin art – try decorating a pumpkin with glitter, glue, or stickers.
• For older kids, try a “puking pumpkin” science experiment using baking soda and vinegar to make a fizzing jack-o’-lantern!

5. Casper (1995, PG)

This classic live-action/CGI film stars Devon Sawa and Christina Ricci and tells the story of Casper, the friendly ghost who just wants to make friends rather than scare people. Alongside a warm-hearted human family, Casper helps teach kindness, acceptance, and that not all ghosts are spooky. Plus, it’s full of humor and a little mystery.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Have fun writing your own ghost stories where the ghost is the hero, not the villain.
• Put on a little ghost puppet show using socks or paper bags, where a “friendly ghost” helps solve problems or makes new friends.
• For a crafty twist, make ghost decorations using cotton balls or white tissue paper to bring your stories to life.

Monsters, Magic, and More: Fun Halloween Movies for Tweens and Younger Teens

If your tweens or younger teens are ready to dive into some spooky fun (without the nightmares), you’re in the right place. These Halloween movies for kids bring just the right mix of magic, mystery, and mild scares to keep things exciting but family-friendly. Think gentle scary movies that still pack a big dose of fun – perfect for easing into Halloween season with smiles, not screams.

6. Hotel Transylvania (2012, PG)

In this animated comedy, Adam Sandler voices Count Dracula, who runs a lavish hotel just for monsters. When a human accidentally stumbles in, Dracula scrambles to protect his daughter and his guests. It’s a goofy, heartwarming tale about acceptance, family, and friendship, with classic monsters like Frankenstein, the Mummy, and the Invisible Man getting a silly, kid-friendly makeover.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Explore the origins of famous monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein’s creature, and the Mummy. Compare their traditional legends to their playful portrayals in the movie.
• Create your own “monster makeover” by redesigning a classic monster with a funny or friendly twist.

7. The Addams Family (2019 PG)

This movie brings Charles Addams’ delightfully spooky characters to life in a colorful, funny, and surprisingly heartwarming way. Set in their iconic old house, the movie follows Gomez, Morticia, Wednesday, Pugsley, and the rest of the Addams clan as they adjust to life in a bright, “normal” neighborhood while staying true to their wonderfully weird selves. Themes of family unity, being yourself, and accepting differences shine through the gags and gothic charm.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Create your own “unusual family” characters. Give them funny names, quirky traits, and even a family motto.
• Draw a family portrait or make a scrapbook page showing their adventures.
• For an extra hands-on twist, make “spooky but silly” crafts like spider cupcakes, glow-in-the-dark slime, or paper bag puppets of each character.
• Act out your own Addams-style mini movie.

8. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993, PG)

Tim Burton’s stop-motion masterpiece blends Halloween and Christmas in a beautifully spooky musical. Known as the Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington’s adventures in “Christmas Town” teach lessons about curiosity, identity, and celebrating differences. Danny Elfman’s haunting songs and Chris Sarandon’s voice work make this a magical watch.

Springboard Learning Idea:

• Imagine what would happen if the two holidays were swapped. How would decorations, costumes, and celebrations change?
• For an artsy twist, design “holiday crossover” ornaments or gifts or foods. (What would happen in the Easter bunny got zapped into Valentine’s Day?)
• You could even stage a mini holiday parade at home where each person mixes the two holidays in a silly or creative way.

9. Coraline (2009, PG)

This stop-motion fantasy adventure follows Coraline, a curious girl who discovers a hidden door leading to a parallel world that seems perfect-at first. But the “Other Mother” has sinister plans, and Coraline must use courage and quick thinking to save herself and her real family. It’s a darkly whimsical tale with gorgeous visuals and powerful lessons about bravery, love, and seeing the value in what you already have.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Start a “bravery journal” where kids record times they faced something scary and how they overcame it.
• Write an alternate ending or design your own secret door.
• Research the science of light and dark or optical illusions.

10. Monster House (2006, PG)

This animated thriller follows a group of brave kids who discover their neighbor’s house is actually alive-and hungry! Blending mystery, humor, and just enough spookiness, the film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while exploring themes of teamwork, courage, and not judging others too quickly.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Draw a map of your neighborhood or invent an imaginary one. Choose one house to be the “monster house” and brainstorm what makes it strange. Does it groan at night, sprout extra chimneys, or change colors with the weather?
• Write a short mystery story about how your characters investigate and uncover the truth.
• For an extra creative twist, build a 3D model of your monster house using cardboard, recycled materials, or blocks, and add interactive features like trap doors or moving parts.

For Teens and Older Kids: Spooky and Family-Friendly Halloween Movies

Looking for good Halloween movies for kids who want something a little more grown-up, but still family-friendly? This list is made just for your teens and older kids who like their spooky thrills without the full-on horror.

11. Frankenweenie (2012, PG)

This charming stop-motion animated film from Tim Burton tells the story of Victor, a young boy who uses science to bring his beloved dog Sparky back to life-Frankenstein style! It’s a heartfelt tale about friendship, loss, and the power of creativity, wrapped up in spooky fun and classic monster movie vibes. With quirky characters and plenty of laughs, Frankenweenie is perfect for kids who enjoy a little spooky with a lot of heart.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Chat about the basics of electricity and how science helps us understand the world.
• Try a simple static electricity experiments or create your own mini “lightning” using a DIY circuit with batteries and LEDs.
• Discuss how Victor’s curiosity and kindness lead to his scientific adventure.

12. Hocus Pocus (1993, PG)

This cult classic stars Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as the unforgettable Sanderson Sisters-three mischievous witches who are accidentally resurrected on Halloween night in a small town called Salem. Packed with magical powers, silly antics, and spooky fun, it’s perfect for middle schoolers and young kids who want laughs with just a touch of light scares. The Sanderson Sisters’ playful mischief and the town’s Halloween spirit make this movie a timeless favorite.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Dive into the real history of Salem and the infamous witch trials.
• Research how the stories of the Sanderson Sisters compare to actual events.
• Chat about how legends and folklore evolve over time, mixing fact with fiction.

13. Goosebumps (2015, PG)

Based on R.L. Stine’s beloved book series, this fun-filled adventure stars Jack Black as the author whose spooky monsters unexpectedly come to life! It’s a thrilling and funny ride that’s perfect for middle-grade kids who love spooky stories without the chills being too intense. With plenty of humor and heart, it’s a great pick to get your kids excited about reading and storytelling.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Encourage your kids to write their own short spooky stories inspired by the movie or R.L. Stine’s famous books.
• Have a “monster creation” art project where they design their own unique creatures with silly or scary features.
• Then have a mini storytelling night where everyone shares their monster tales.

14. Ghostbusters (1984, PG)

Get ready for a hilarious supernatural adventure as a team of quirky scientists turn ghost hunters to save New York City from spooky spirits! Starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis Ghostbusters mixes laughs, iconic ghost-catching gadgets, and some light scares that are perfect for teens and families who love a fun, spooky story without the chills.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Dive into the science (and science fiction) behind ghost stories and paranormal investigations.
• Try making your own “electromagnetic field (EMF) detector” with a simple compass and a coil of wire experiment.
• Try making “ghost fog”. With an adult’s help, drop a piece of dry ice into warm water for real spooky mist. For a kid-safe version, use a cool-mist humidifier and shine a flashlight through the vapor for a ghostly glow.

15. Beetlejuice (1988, PG)

This cult classic dark comedy stars Michael Keaton as Beetlejuice, alongside Winona Ryder, Alec Baldwin, and Geena Davis. It’s a wild and mischievous ghost story filled with quirky humor and spooky fun and memorable one-liners, Beetlejuice is perfect for older kids and teens who like a little supernatural mischief without full-on horror. The movie cleverly blends ghostly antics with lessons about friendship, family, and facing your fears-plus it’s got that iconic Tim Burton film style you’ll recognize instantly.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Research and compare/contrast different cultural/religious views of the afterlife.
• Watch for Beetlejuice’s wild antics and then challenge your teen to write a fun, spooky script or comic strip about a ghost with a unique personality.
• Dive into the special effects used in the movie and experiment with DIY “ghostly” illusions using shadows, lights, and simple props at home.

Bonus Pick: Little Shop of Horrors (1986, PG-13)

This cult musical comedy horror stars Rick Moranis as Seymour, a meek florist who discovers a strange, man-eating plant that brings unexpected fame-and trouble! With catchy songs, quirky characters, and a blend of humor and mild scares, Little Shop of Horrors is perfect for teens who enjoy something a little spooky but full of laughs. The plant’s crazy antics offer a fun way to talk about consequences, responsibility, and the wild side of science fiction.

Springboard Learning Ideas:

• Learn about real carnivorous plants like the Venus flytrap or pitcher plant. Compare and contrast how they lure and digest insects.
• For hands-on fun, consider growing a Venus flytrap, pitcher plant or multiple carnivorous plants at home Kids can observe how these fascinating plants work and even keep a journal of their growth and “meals.”

Print & Go Giveaway: Halloween Movies for Kids Tracker

Subject Learning Ideas for Your Halloween Movie Nights

Spooky movies can be so much more than just fun fright, they can also open doors to history, science, literature, art, and more. Here are some hands-on and mind-opening ideas to keep the learning going beyond the screen:

• History: Dive into the spooky origins of Halloween. Research legends of witches, ghosts, and monsters from cultures around the world from Salem’s witch trials in the U.S. to vampire folklore in Transylvania. How do these tales reflect the values and fears of each culture? Compare stories and create your own folklore-inspired character.

• Creative Writing: Let these fun Halloween movies spark your imagination. Write your own spooky stories, poems, or even a mini script featuring friendly ghosts or misunderstood monsters. Try adding twists that teach lessons about bravery, kindness, or friendship.

• Science & Nature: Discover the real animals behind Halloween symbols. Study bats’ echolocation, owls’ night vision, and spiders’ web-building skills. Conduct a backyard or park “creature hunt” to observe local wildlife or create simple experiments like a pumpkin decomposition study.

• Art & Crafts: Get crafty with monster masks, ghost puppets, or decorate pumpkins using glitter, paint, stickers, or even science experiments. Try carving jack-o’-lanterns or designing your own haunted house diorama inspired by movie scenes.

• Geography & Culture: Map spooky legends across the globe! Pin Salem for witches, Transylvania for vampires, and Mexico for Día de los Muertos traditions. Explore how different places celebrate or honor spirits, and create a “spooky world tour” scrapbook.

• Music & Performance: Sing along with The Nightmare Before Christmas or create your own spooky soundtrack with household items. Try making sound effects like creaky doors or howling wind, then perform a short spooky play or puppet show with friends or family.

• Math & Logic: Solve Halloween-themed puzzles, riddles, or logic games. Design your own haunted house floor plan using measurement and geometry. Try creating secret codes or ciphers inspired by movies like Coraline or Monster House.

• Social Studies: Explore how Halloween traditions vary among families and cultures. Interview relatives or friends about their favorite Halloween memories. Compare trick-or-treat customs, costumes, and community celebrations, then create a poster or slideshow highlighting these differences.

Final Thought

Halloween is more than costumes and candy, it’s a time for imagination, curiosity, and connection. Whether you’re watching silly monsters, friendly ghosts, or spine-tingling adventures, these Halloween movies for kids bring fun and learning together. So grab your popcorn, turn down the lights, and enjoy a night full of stories that spark wonder and maybe just a little friendly fright.