Family-Friendly Christmas Movies

It's that time of year. Rushing around trying to get all our shopping done, we also get ready to watch some of our favorite holiday movies. As a mother of a six-year-old boy, I look carefully for movies that are both appropriate and will keep him entertained.

Here are ten movies that I think will do just that.

10. A Christmas Story - This movie usually ends near the top for most lists. Maybe I have just seen it too many times. And, the fact that they play it for 24 hours straight may also have had an impact on where I placed this movie.

However, there is no denying the movies charm. Peter Billingsley was brilliant as Ralphie. Watching him and try to persuade his parents to get him a BB gun brings a smile to even the most sour of faces. This is definitely one of the best movies to share with your kids during Christmas season.

9. The Year Without a Santa Claus - I love watching this every year. Santa Claus doesn't feel appreciated and when he gets a cold, he takes the excuse to cancel Christmas for one year. It is up to Mrs. Claus and her friendly elves to prove Santa wrong.

I know of no one who isn't charmed by this story. And, I find myself singing with snow and heat miser each time. It never fails to amuse me, even after 35 years. And, that is a sign of a true classic, one that holds up over many years.

8. The Santa Clause - Not every Christmas movie has to be sentimental. Some can just be humorous, gently poking fun at tradition. This movie does just that. I certainly won't think about Elves in the same way.

Tim Allen makes a loveable Chris Kringle. And, besides, who wouldn't want to find out their father is Santa!!

7. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) - I actually enjoyed the 2000 movie starring Jim Carrey as well. But, nothing can beat the original. This story is wonderful and kids of all ages will and do love it.

Who isn't happy when the mean, nasty Mr. Grinch's heart grows with love? Who isn't charmed by Cindy Lou Who? There is no doubt that Christmas wouldn't be the same without this holiday classic.

6. The Polar Express -This movie is beautifully animated and feels like a Christmas movie should. It's an exciting adventure when our hero boy steps upon the train that teaches him that the magic never fades for those who believe.

Besides, who can resist a movie full of Tom Hanks, who plays many roles including the train conductor and, of course, Santa Claus, himself. A great family movie, for all the kids in your home, even you.

5. Nightmare Before Christmas - I like this movie so much it made it onto both this list and my Halloween list . Our son adores this movie. And, it combines the spookiness of Halloween with the sweet message of Christmas, it's a win-win situation.

Tim Burton truly sees the world differently than most. But there is a beauty to this story and we all appreciate it as Jack Skellington learns the true meaning of the season and that he can't take over Christmas. A fun movie that is good for all ages.

4. Miracle on 34^th Street (1947) - Although there are many remakes, none are as well done as the original. This movie shows you the true power behind belief. How many of us wanted Susan and her mother to truly believe he was Santa Claus?

Edmund Gwen personifies the jolly man from the North Pole. It is a joy to watch and rewatch every year. And, it makes us appreciate the joy and wonder of the holiday season. And, that is true magic.

3. A Charlie Brown Christmas - No Christmas list is complete without A Charlie Brown Christmas. From the pathetic little tree he picks out, to the initial reaction of the others, we all root for the biggest underdog of all, Charlie Brown.

And, I beam when Linus stands up and has his epiphany on the true meaning of Christmas. It's a feel good movie that pleases the whole family. The season wouldn't be the same without it.

2. A Christmas Carol (1951)- Few stories make you feel the power of Christmas as much as Dickens' tale of Scrooge and his hard-to-learn lesson. Here was a man, who at first was very mean and hard to care about. The book and then this movie let us accept him and to eventually care about him.

Christmas should be a time for everyone, a time for acceptance and love to win out. This movie has us all truly saying "G-d bless us, everyone..."

1. It's a Wonderful Life - Despite what I said about my number 10 choice, this movie doesn't get tiring. I can't help but be whisked away by Frank Capra's vision, transported to a wondrous fantasy that always leaves a smile on my face.

Who doesn't cheer on George Bailey and exult in his new found happiness and realization at just how important one man can be? This movie is one you cannot let your child miss. It's inspiring, fun, and teaches the true meaning of love and family.

These are 10 great movies, perfect for both adults and the kids. Do you have any to add?