Essential Christmas Movies for Kids

As Christmas draws nearer, the anticipation and excitement felt by children escalates to the point of impatience. In the mind of a child the final countdown to Christmas day can take an eternity, leaving them anxious and desperate for something to divert their attention from the unbearable wait. What better way to calm down the little angels, and give them a little dose of Christmas entertainment, than indulging them with some good old Christmas classics. There are plenty of Christmas movies to choose from, depending on the age of your youngsters, but some are absolutely essential to the entire tradition of Christmas.

While this animated classic was originally created with a younger audience in mind, Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer can be enjoyed over and over by kids and kids at heart. You're never too old to be captivated and inspired by Rudolph and his sense of determination. Of course the youngest of your brood will delight in the mere sight of Santa and the other animated characters, but the movie does instill a sense of Christmas spirit, as Rudolph, despite all the teasing and ridicule, steps up to help Santa ensure all the children get their gifts, and the toys of misfit island are given a second chance, on a storm filled Christmas Eve.

How can we talk of essential Christmas movies without mentioning Frosty the Snowman? Kids adore this lovable snowman, who comes to life when a magical hat is placed on his head. He is befriended by a little girl, who sets out on a mission to get him to the north pole, where he can avoid the spring thaw and stay alive forever. Unfortunately, they are pursued on their journey, by an evil magician who seeks to gain possession of the hat. A series of misadventures final lead them to their destination, where Santa manages to get the magician to see the err of his ways, and save Frosty. Children of all ages love this age old favorite, which entertains and captures the imagination.

One of my personal favorites, How the Grinch stole Christmas, is a must see. He's mean and green and out to steal Christmas from all the little Who's in Whoville. After sneaking in and ridding the town of every last gift, decoration, ornament and bit of food, he is stunned to hear the who's still rejoicing and celebrating Christmas. He learns the true meaning of Christmas, and his heart grows bigger as he joins the Who's for their Christmas feast. Little Cindy Lou Who and the Grinch's dog Max, who is adorned with an antler and forced to pull the sleigh, are beloved characters in this Christmas favorite.

For the older kids, whose attention can be held for a full length movie, Home Alone is the ultimate experience. Kevin, a young boy, is mistakenly left at home when his family boards a plane and jets off for a Christmas vacation. He finds himself face to face with a couple of burglars who intend to rob his family's home. Forced to defend his property, his crazy antics and schemes to thwart off the thieves make for some hilarious scenes. The poor thieves prove to be no match for the ingenuity of this boy, and are subjected to his relentless defensive counterattacks. This is a comedy the whole family can enjoy year after year.

Get in your pyjamas, fire up the television and start the popcorn popping. A night of Christmas movies may be just what the kids need to relax, unwind and take their minds off of the agonizing wait. Although these movies are supposed to be for the kids, I'm sure you'll enjoy them just as much. After all, what a way to get in the Christmas spirit, with a childlike enthusiasm and the belief in Santa Clause and miracles.