38 of the Best Scary Movies for Kids this Halloween

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Discover the best Halloween movies for young kids in our fun-filled guide! From lighthearted adventures to mild spooky tales, these family-friendly films are perfect for getting into the Halloween spirit together.

Looking for a fun way to get the whole family in the Halloween spirit this spooky season? There’s nothing better than gathering around for a cozy family movie night!

Whether you’re introducing little ones to their first Halloween flick or entertaining older kids with something just spooky enough, we’ve got a movie for every age. From sweet and silly to slightly spooky, these films are perfect for making your Halloween night a memorable one. Grab the popcorn, dim the lights, and let the fun begin!

The Best Scary Movies for Kids this Halloween

It’s the perfect time of year to introduce some new movies to the fam. (Anyone else’s kids watch the same movies over and over and over…?) As the leaves change and the days grow shorter, cozying up for a movie night becomes even more special.

We’ve put together a list of the best Halloween movies for young kids that you’ll enjoy watching too! Each film is sure to spark joy and laughter, making it easy to create wonderful memories together. It’s a great way to get into the Halloween spirit and make this spooky season one to remember!

Movies for Ages 3-5 (Gentle and Fun Halloween Films)

These movies are perfect for little kids, offering lighthearted Halloween themes without any major scares. They provide a delightful mix of fun and whimsy, allowing young viewers to explore the excitement of the season in a safe and friendly way.

With colorful animations, catchy songs, and lovable characters, these films create a joyful atmosphere that captures the magic of Halloween. Each story is designed to entertain while fostering a sense of wonder, making them ideal for introducing children to the spirit of the holiday.

1. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie BrownClassic Peanuts animated film Halloween special that’s sweet and nostalgic. Join Charlie Brown and the gang as they celebrate Halloween while Linus waits for the elusive Great Pumpkin.
2. Room on the BroomAnimated short based on the popular children’s book about a witch and her animal friends. This charming tale emphasizes friendship, cooperation, and the magic of helping others.
3. Curious George: A Halloween Boo FestA fun, mild adventure with Curious George exploring a Halloween festival. Kids will love following George’s curiosity as he searches for the mythical “No Noggin” who haunts the festival.
4. Spookley the Square PumpkinA heartwarming story about a unique pumpkin that saves the day. This colorful, uplifting film promotes accepting differences and finding your inner strength.
5. Pooh’s Heffalump Halloween MovieWinnie the Pooh and his friends in Hundred Acre Wood have a gentle Halloween adventure. With themes of bravery and friendship, this sweet film is perfect for the youngest viewers.
6. Mickey’s House of VillainsMickey and friends face off with Disney villains in this fun, not-too-spooky film. Full of iconic characters and catchy songs, it’s a Halloween treat for Disney fans.
7. Super Monsters Save HalloweenPreschool monsters go on an adventure, promoting kindness and teamwork. The Super Monsters’ mission to bring Halloween fun to their neighborhood makes for an adorable, feel-good watch.
8. The Little Vampire (2000)A friendly vampire befriends a boy, perfect for a gentle Halloween story. This whimsical adventure balances mild spookiness with themes of friendship and acceptance.
9. Casper’s Halloween SpecialA friendly ghost makes this a cute and fun Halloween option. Casper’s kind-hearted nature shines through in this charming ghostly adventure for the whole family.
10. The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad

• • Disney’s lighter take on “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” paired with the classic Mr. Toad tale. This entertaining double feature blends humor and adventure with just a touch of spooky fun.

11. Hotel Transylvania

• • Animated comedy about a hotel for monsters with a loving family message. With laugh-out-loud moments and endearing characters, it’s a lighthearted way to celebrate the spooky season. 

12. Kiki’s Delivery Service

• • A sweet film about a young witch’s journey of self-discovery, perfect for little ones. Kiki’s adventures deliver plenty of heart and gentle lessons about independence and kindness.

13. Elmo Says Boo!

• • Sesame Street Halloween fun with Elmo and his friends visiting The Count’s castle. Full of familiar characters and silly scares, it’s a great introduction to Halloween for toddlers.

Movies for Ages 6-8 (Slightly Spooky but Still Fun)

These films have a little bit of spooky fun but are mild enough for younger school-aged children. They offer just the right amount of thrills and giggles, making them perfect for introducing kids to the excitement of Halloween without any overwhelming scares.

With charming characters and delightful stories, these movies encourage imagination and creativity, ensuring that even the littlest viewers can enjoy a festive movie night. Packed with lighthearted adventures, they capture the spirit of Halloween in a way that’s engaging and family-friendly.

1. Monsters, Inc.Friendly monsters in a scare factory, with a focus on humor and adventure. This Pixar classic is full of heartwarming moments and shows that sometimes, laughter is stronger than fear.
2. Scooby-Doo! and the Witch’s GhostScooby Doo and the gang head to a spooky New England town to solve a mystery involving an eerie witch. Full of classic Scooby-Doo humor and mild scares, it’s a fun and engaging Halloween option for kids.
3. Hotel Transylvania 2Another fun installment featuring more monster antics and family themes. This sequel continues the laughs and adds new characters, keeping the series fresh and enjoyable.
4. Toy Story of Terror!A fun, slightly spooky Toy Story Halloween special. Woody, Buzz, and the gang face unexpected twists in this mini-adventure with plenty of heart and humor.
5. The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About Halloween!Cat in the Hat takes the kids on a Halloween adventure that’s educational and fun. With catchy songs and colorful animation, it’s a playful way to learn about Halloween traditions.
6. The Dog Who Saved HalloweenA dog detective helps solve a Halloween mystery in this lighthearted, family-friendly film. Featuring silly mischief and a lovable canine hero, it’s perfect for younger viewers.
7. Muppets Haunted MansionThe Muppets take on a spooky mansion with their usual charm and humor. Full of clever gags and familiar Muppet fun, it’s spooky without being scary, perfect for family viewing.
8. Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-RabbitA claymation adventure with lots of humor and a mild spooky element. Wallace and Gromit’s quirky inventions and gentle suspense make this a delightful Halloween treat.
9. Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet the WolfmanThe chipmunks’ spooky encounter with a werewolf is silly and fun. Their usual antics paired with lighthearted frights make this an entertaining option for kids.
10. The Worst Witch (TV Special, 1986)

• • A young witch-in-training has humorous misadventures at school, perfect for this age. This charming TV special has a nostalgic feel, full of whimsy and lessons about growing up.

11. Eloise’s Rawther Unusual Halloween

• • A mischievous young girl plans a Halloween party in a fancy hotel. Eloise’s cheeky adventures and the grand setting make for a lighthearted and unique Halloween story.

12. Coco

• • Though more about the Day of the Dead, this film explores Mexican traditions around death in a very colorful and heartfelt way, appropriate for this age group. With beautiful animation and a touching message about family, it’s perfect for a thoughtful Halloween night.

13. The Scream Team

• • A Disney Channel original movie about two kids who team up with friendly ghosts to solve a mystery. Full of spooky fun and adventure, it’s a family-friendly film with just the right amount of Halloween excitement.

Movies for Ages 9-10+ (Slightly Darker Themes but Still Kid-Friendly)

These films are appropriate for older kids, with slightly more mature themes but still a focus on fun and adventure. They provide a perfect balance of excitement and lightheartedness, making them great choices for family movie nights.

With engaging storylines and memorable characters, these movies encourage young viewers to explore their imaginations while enjoying a little spooky thrill. Whether it’s through magical journeys or humorous escapades, these films are sure to keep everyone entertained.

1. Goosebumps (2015)Based on the R.L. Stine books, this film has mild scares but is more comedic than frightening. With a fun plot and familiar monsters, it’s an entertaining adventure for fans of the popular book series.
2. The Witches (2020)A fantasy film with a spooky twist, but it’s playful and adventurous. The story captures the essence of Roald Dahl’s classic tale while adding a modern touch that keeps it fresh and engaging.
3. Monster FamilyA family turns into monsters and embarks on a humorous adventure to break the curse. With heart and laughter, this film highlights the importance of family bonds, even when things get a little spooky.
4. The Nightmare Before ChristmasThis stop-motion Tim Burton film classic blends Halloween and Christmas with spooky yet whimsical charm. Join Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, as he tries to spread Christmas cheer while learning about the true spirit of the holidays.
5. FrankenweenieTim Burton’s story of a boy bringing his dog back to life features heartwarming moments and mild scares. This tribute to classic horror films is filled with charm and offers a touching message about love and loss.
6. The Spiderwick ChroniclesA fantasy spooky adventure with magical creatures and just enough mystery to keep older kids intrigued. This film invites viewers into a fantastical world where imagination and adventure come to life.
7. The Addams Family (2019)The animated version of the spooky yet hilarious Addams family is perfect for this age. With quirky humor and lovable characters, it’s a fun exploration of what it means to be different.
8. ParaNormanA young boy who can talk to ghosts tries to save his town, with a balance of humor and spooky vibes. This unique story blends heartfelt messages with supernatural adventures that kids will love.
9. A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster HuntingA babysitter battles Halloween monsters in this kid-friendly adventure. Full of excitement and laughs, it’s a perfect mix of bravery and friendship that makes for an enjoyable watch.
10. Halloweentown

• • A Disney Channel classic about a girl discovering her family’s magical heritage. With enchanting creatures and a charming storyline, this film brings a sense of wonder and adventure to Halloween.

11. Corpse Bride

• • Tim Burton’s gothic tale of a man who accidentally pledges his wedding vows to a mysterious bride from the underworld blends eerie elements with adventure and romance. This visually stunning film captures the whimsical yet dark spirit that Burton is known for.

12. The House with a Clock in Its Walls

• • A magical fantasy adventure with just the right amount of spookiness. Following a young boy’s journey in a mysterious house, it’s filled with surprises that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

No matter how your family celebrates, these spooky movies are sure to get everyone in the spirit of Halloween. Whether you’re sharing scary stories or watching a scary movie together, Halloween is all about having a great time with the ones you love. So, snuggle up, press play, and enjoy the magic of the season with these family-friendly films that bring out the best of Halloween fun. Happy haunting!