shopDisney has dropped Halloween apparel, home goods, costumes and more for 2022.

It’s August so there’s no time like the present to start gearing up for Halloween! When it comes to costumes, the sooner you lock your kids into their decision the better (fingers crossed they end up circling back to where they started because they WILL change their minds).

You can get a jump on all things dress up thanks to shopDisney’s Halloween shop that is locked and loaded for the spooky season. In addition to festive Mickey ears and apparel, there are tons of new costumes hitting the site already. From Lightyear-inspired getups to Mirabel from Encanto, stop shopping costumes for baby, toddler, big kid and adaptive styles now.

Baby & Toddler

Oogie Boogie

Coming Soon BUY NOW

Well, well, well! You'll have your own little boogeyman with this adorable costumes. It comes with a full jumpsuit and a separate headpiece that has a large opening so your little can easily see their way from house to house. Stay tuned––this costume is coming soon to shopDisney.


Sox

$25 BUY NOW

Lightyear's cutest robot cat is here for Halloween! Soft and comfy, this jumpsuit has a detachable tail, collar, Sox vinyl nametag and headpiece adorable ears and nose.


Grogu Hover Pram

Coming Soon BUY NOW

You've got your own little baby Yoda with this sweet costume. This set comes with a body suit, pram and separate headpiece to complete the look. Check back at shopDisney, this costume is coming soon.

Big Kids

Mirabel

$50 BUY NOW

Join the family Madrigal with this Mirabel costume. This authentic dress features scalloped edges, butterfly appliqués and all the bright colors Mirabel is known for. Green glasses not included!


Lightyear Space Ranger

$40 BUY NOW

Join Buzz as he blasts off to space! This Space ranger suit comes with a jumpsuit, built-out chest overlay, a Space Ranger hood, blank yellow name tag that kids can personalize, lower bodice muscle linking plus sleeve cuffs.


Mighty Thor (aka Jane Foster)

$60 BUY NOW

Move over, regular Thor. This mighty costume comes with a top, leggings, attached cap and of course the wined mask for the complete look Jane Foster rocks in the film.

Adaptive

Buzz Lightyear Spaceship Wheelchair Cover Set

$50 BUY NOW

Get ready for blastoff This Lightyear-inspired wheelchair cover set comes with spaceship art, plastic piping for stability and long hook and loop strips so that everything stays in place.

 


Black Panther Light-Up Adaptive Costume

$50 BUY NOW

King T'Challa's is ruling Wakanda! This padded Black Panther costume comes with a mask, light-up features and openings both in the front and back.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


 

Now that your kids are avid readers, they’ll need bigger books to sink their teeth into. Enter: chapter books. With more developed characters and plots, these novels lend themselves to flights of fancy and often turn into series your kids can read for years to come.


The Midnighters is a new chapter book for kids.

The Midnighters

$17 BUY NOW

Ema has always been different from her family, and it takes a trip to stay with her uncle in Prague to meet someone who finally sees her for who she is. Silvie is everything Ema needs until she goes missing. Can she follow the clue Silvie has left her to find her in time? Ages: 8-12


Gabe in the After is aa chapter book for kids.

Gabe in the After

$18 BUY NOW

With a storyline that hits close to home, Gabe is learning to navigate a post-pandemic world. As he and the 20-ish other survivors carry on, they came across a girl they've never met who sparks joy in their tiny community. Who is she? Ages: 10-14


The Agathas is a chapter book for teens.

The Agathas

$14 BUY NOW

Young suspense enthusiasts will love this first book in a new series that's packed with suspense and drama. Agatha Christie-lover, Alice Ogilvie, has plenty of secrets of her own but the biggest mystery of Castle Cove is missing Brooke Donovan. Can our protagonist use her knowledge from her fave author to solve the question of what happened to Brooke? Written for mature audiences, this book is just as fun for moms and is the perfect beach read. Ages: 14+


Spineless is a chapter book for grade school kids.

Spineless

$15 BUY NOW

Budding naturalist Algie Emsworth may love exploring, but his asthma is keeping him from living his best life. Set in the late 19th century, he's sent to a health resort where things aren't as they should be. Amidst the mysterious dead carcasses surrounding the property, Algie also comes face to face with a new species and forces who yearn to extinguish it. Ages: 8-12


The Wind in the Willows in 20 Minutes a Day: A Read-With-Me Book

$19 BUY NOW

Introduce readers to the classics with this intuitive "Read with Me" format that uses discussion questions and definitions to bring the story to life! In 20 minutes a day, kids will love digging into each story in a meaningful way that isn't overwhelming. Ages: 8-12


Mr. Lemoncello's Very First Game

$15 BUY NOW

OG Mr. Lemoncello fans will love this origin story prequel. Readers will get the entire backstory on the everyone's favorite game maker, Luigi Lemoncello, and his rise to stardom. Ages: 8-12


Life in the Doghouse Series

$7 BUY NOW

Inspired by the hit documentary, "Life in the Doghouse," this series of chapter books brings real-life rescued pups to life. Perfect for puppy lovers, each book focuses on a wild and crazy dog who's found their furever home. Ages: 7-10


A Duet for Home is a chapter book

A Duet for Home

$15 BUY NOW

June, Maybelle and their mom have just lost their home and can't believe they've found themselves at Huey House, the local shelter. When June can't even bring her prized viola inside, she doesn't think their new accommodations will work. Then she meets Tyrell, a long-term resident. Together, they form a fast friendship that comes in handy when a new policy threatens to oust them from Huey House. Ages: 9-12


Zara's Rules for Record-Breaking Fun

$7 BUY NOW

Zara and Zayd are excited when a new family moves in across the street, until Naomi seems to want to take over. Ever the neighborhood fun queen, Zara isn't so sure she wants to play by newcomer Naomi's rules. So she creates her own way for record-breaking fun: setting a Guinness World Record. Hena Khan's newest book is a fun read that moves fast and evokes tons of laughter. Ages: 7-10


The Einsteins of Vista Point

$14 BUY NOW

The Einstein's are all living in the wake of tragedy when they move to Vista Point. As 11-year-old Zach settles into the new, small town with mysterious landmarks, he makes a new friend in Ann. But is Ann holding back secrets? Ben Guterson's story is deep, meaningful and poignant and an excellent read for young and old. Ages: 9+


Grow Up, Tahlia Wilkins!

$17 BUY NOW

The Fairy Godmother of Womanhood has finally paid Tahlia a visit––right before the famed upcoming class party. In addition to the zit adorning her chin, she just can't catch a break. Together with her friend Lily, Tahlia embarks on a journey to get to the party no matter what (oh yeah, and find some feminine protection) in this hilarious, coming-of-age story by Karina Evans. Ages: 9+


Best New Chapter Books for Kids

Willis Wilbur Wows the World

$14 BUY NOW

Willis has just finished third grade and he's ready to take the world––and the summer––by storm. Too bad his best friend won't be there like they planned. So instead, our main man decides he's found his calling as the new neighborhood life coach. Author Lindsey Leavitt's new book in the forthcoming series is the perfect summer read for youngsters, with plenty of laughable moments and tons of gumption. Ages: 8-12


Operation Sisterhood is a chapter book

Operation Sisterhood

$14 BUY NOW

It's always just been Bo and her mom living in the Bronx, but now, things are changing. The two of them are moving to Harlem to live with Bill, her mom's boyfriend and the rest of the "house family." Oh, and a wedding is on the horizon. Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich weaves a beautiful tale of change, Black girlhood and the comforting communities found within the colorful streets of a New York City summer. Ages: 9+


Best New Chapter Books for Kids

Freewater

$14 BUY NOW

An important story for young adults, Amina Luqman-Dawson's story on a slave's journey to freedom is told through various narrators. Homer and his sister Ada have only known slavery, which is all the more reason to leave the plantation behind. When they find themselves in a secret community, Freewater, they almost forget the horrors of their past. But Homer has an important decision to make when their lives once again become threatened. Can he make it back to his mother to free her, too? Ages: 10+


The Night Bus Hero

$17 BUY NOW

Hector is a troublemaker, but when he takes it too far, he's committed to turning his life around. When he pranks a homeless person and is seen by a classmate, Hector embarks on a journey of meaning as his story introduces readers to bullies and the problem of homelessness. Ages: 10+


Abby In Between: Ready or Not!

$17 BUY NOW

Abby has a lot going on in life. Between her best friend moving away, her mom going back to work and being forced to join the running club, her life feels a bit chaotic. On top of everything, it's time for a BRA. Megan E. Bryant's coming of age novel is the first in a series that young readers and moms alike won't be able to put down. Ages: 9+


The Supernatural Society is a chapter book for kids.

The Supernatural Society

$17 BUY NOW

Will is devastated when his mom moves the family out of New York to East Emerson, a small town in the middle of nowhere. He's even more upset when he discovers the town is full of monsters. Yep, real-life zombies, minotaurs and mummies. When the pets in town start disappearing, Will has to team of up with his new friend Ivy and her brother Linus to figure out what's really going on, and if the monsters are to blame. Ages: 9+


Maizy Chen's Last Chance

$17 BUY NOW

Maizy has found herself in Last Chance, Minnesota for the first time. When she and her mom travel there to take care of her sick grandfather, she not only finds that her family are the only Asian Americans in town, but that her family's restaurant, the Golden Palace, has lots of secrets to unravel. Ages: 8-12


The Swallowtail Legacy: Wreck at Ada's Reef

$18 BUY NOW

Lark has found herself on Swallowtail Island for the summer with her sister, stepdad and stepbrothers, along with a summer job helping to research a book. When she starts to uncover the mysteries of an unsolved boat crash, what results is a revelation involving murder and so much more. Michael D. Beil's first novel in the new series is intriguing for any mature reader who loves mysteries. Ages: 11+


Sofía Acosta Makes a Scene

$17 BUY NOW

Sofía comes from a family of dancers, but she just doesn't have the feet to become a professional like her parents. As a Cuban-American fifth grader, she's learning to navigate her own worldview, understand who she wants to be in life and what it means to be an immigrant family. Emma Otheguy's coming of age novel addresses racism and so much more that will keep young readers riveted. Ages: 9+


The Witch's Apprentice (Dragons in a Bag #3)

$14 BUY NOW

Fans of Zeta Elliott's acclaimed series continue the story with book number three. Jax is navigating all sorts of things: from his lessons as a witch's apprentice, his friends Kenny and Kavita and the biggest of all: a phoenix egg! Ages: 8-12


Cornbread & Poppy

$7 BUY NOW

Cornbread and Poppy are best friends, but they're very different. Where Cornbread is ready to weather the winter, Poppy has just realized she is not prepared at all. In this three-chapter book, follow along as Caldecott Medalist Matthew Cordell takes the pair up Holler Mountain where they find a new friend. Ages: 6-8

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If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


If we hadn’t seen it for ourselves, we’d be calling bologna on this one. But it’s for real. You can now hydrate your face with Oscar Mayer bologna hydrogel sheet masks. Because it’s 2022. Why wouldn’t we put bologna on our faces?

But don’t barf. There’s no pressed meat involved. They just look like bologna, but they’re actually lined with Witch Hazel Botanical and seaweed-derived ingredients that protect and hydrate.

Why bologna? Because you can’t spell delightful without deli, and we could all use a slice of self-care every now and then.

—Shelley Massey

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What has letters, numbers and is sometimes stored in a case? Hint: It’s not a smart device! If you’re looking for a last-minute present that they’ll enjoy for years to come, gifting a book is the way to go. Reading fosters young imaginations, and practice builds reading confidence and sets kids up for a life-long love of cracking open a book—there is simply nothing like it!

Whether they’re learning to read or already independent readers, Simon & Schuster has a massive selection of award-winning, bestselling and beloved books that will spark joy (and creativity) in your favorite kid. Here’s a curated list of books you’ll love to give every budding bookworm on your list:

 

The Newly Independent Reader (Ages 5-9)

With a lower word count and more illustrations than other series, Little Simon Chapter Books are geared toward younger independent readers looking to take on chapter books for the first time. Here are some of our faves:

 

Good Dog: Puppy Luck by Cam Higgins

In the first installment of the Good Dog series, Bo Davis is on the hunt for a special item. With the help of his barnyard pals on the Davis Family Farm, the team searches high and low for Bo's beloved dog tag. Is it in the horse stalls, chicken coops, or grazing fields? Join your youngster and find out what happens in Bo's quest.

Get your copy here—WOOF!

 

Itty Bitty Princess Kitty: The Newest Princess by Melody Mews

In this first heartwarming chapter book of the Itty Bitty Princess Kitty series, Itty Bitty Kitty is becoming the princess of Lollyland! While Itty is excited about her new title, she's also nervous for the change that comes with it, like trying out new hairstyles and switching to a new school. With colorful illustrations on every page, your child will be hooked to find out if Itty Bitty Kitty becomes a princess after all.
 

 

The Haunted House Next Door by Andres Miedoso

In the spooky town of Kersville, two eight-year-old best friends are out to catch ghosts and monsters that have been lurking in the darkness. Known as the Desmond Cole Ghost Patrol, fearless Desmond and scaredy-cat Andres are monitoring their neighborhood to keep their pals from getting stuck with a haunt. The simple text, brief chapters, and imaginative art is the perfect trifecta for emerging readers who appreciate a little spook. 

Scare the ghouls away with the complete series!

 

Get a roundup of all Little Simon Chapter Books here.

 

Graphic Novels (For All Levels)

Inviting and exciting content makes graphic novels great for all kids who are “drawn” to reading, regardless of reading level. They keep kids engaged and interested in reading, which can lead to them becoming lifelong readers! We love these:

 

 Dragon Kingdom of Wrenly: The Coldfire Curse by Jordan Quinn

In this exciting first adventure of the Dragon Kingdom of Wrenly series, scarlet dragon Ruskin has to save his kingdom from an evil curse. There's just one problem—he spends his days being the palace's pampered pet dragon. Ruskin has to make a decision between hiding safely behind the palace's walls or trying to save all of Wrenly.

 

The Okay Witch by Emma Steinkellner

Thirteen-year-old Moth Hush has always been drawn to all things witchy. When she discovers that she has powers (and learns that her family has them, too!), things start to get out of control, from meeting a talking cat to unlocking a hidden witch world. There's a lot Moth doesn't know and she's going to unravel a lot more secrets about her town, family, and even herself. 

Become spellbound with this magical book!

 

Trubble Town: Squirrel Do Bad by Stephan Pastis

Wendy the Wanderer has lived in Trubble Town her whole life but never had the chance to go exploring. For this reason, she thinks she was definitely misnamed. Her dad likes to know where she is to make sure she’s safe, so she’s never been anywhere on her own. Then, her dad leaves on a trip and the babysitter doesn’t reinforce all the usual rules. Or any of the usual rules! Suddenly, Wendy is free to do what she wants, and what she wants is to live up to her name…and find Trubble.

Get into Trubble today!

 

See Simon & Schuster’s complete list of graphic novels and add more to your bookshelf today!

 

Books for Young Readers (Ages 8-12)

Simon & Schuster also offers thousands of engaging traditional chapter-length books for kids to read on their own. Here are some favorites for readers in upper elementary and middle school:

 

Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger

One of Simon & Schuster's largest bestselling series about a girl uncovering the secret power buried deep inside her to save the world. Twelve-year-old Sophie has never quite fit into her life. She’s skipped multiple grades and doesn’t really connect with the older kids at school, but she’s not comfortable with her family, either. The reason? Sophie’s a Telepath, someone who can read minds. No one knows her secret—at least, that’s what she thinks…

Get lost in the adventure!

 

City Spies by James Ponti

In this thrilling New York Times bestselling series, which Stuart Gibbs called “a must-read,” Edgar Award winner James Ponti brings together five kids from all over the world and transforms them into real-life spies—perfect for fans of Spy School and Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls.

Don't keep it top secret—get your copy!

Wilderlore: The Accidental Apprentice by Amanda Foody

Wilderlore: The Accidental Apprentice follows the journey of Barclay Thorne—a young boy who doesn't like adventures and is happy being an apprentice to the town's mushroom farmer. To his dismay, however, Barclay finds himself in the forbidden woods where he befriends a beast that gets him run out of town. In his new venture, Barclay discovers a town that is for people just like him: those who've bonded with beasts. Now he's left with making a difficult decision of either returning home or chasing the adventure ahead of him.

Get swept away in the fantasy today!

 

Thanks to Simon & Schuster’s “Books I Like to Give” initiative, you can find ever more recommendations for all ages on their holiday site.

 

Happy reading!

 

—Jamie Aderski

The gobs of Halloween candy your trick-or-treaters bring home can border on the obscene, but thinking of them actually eating it all is enough to make your own teeth hurt. Luckily, there’s a sweet little trend that will help you reduce their sugar intake and up the Halloween fun. It’s the Switch Witch, and she’s here to turn your kid’s candy into a toy, book or another tangible (non-edible) item they’ve been begging for. Here’s our advice on how to invite the Switch Witch into your home.

photo: Charles Parker via Pexels

Prep the Kids
If you are reading this before Halloween night, it’s easy to plant the seed. If Halloween has passed don’t panic: the Switch Witch’s magic lasts for the weeks following. Ask your kiddos if they have heard of the Switch Witch, and then get your story in order! Basically, the Switch Witch requires payment of candy, quite a bit of it, and in exchange, she will leave behind something cool. An inexpensive but desirable gift is best (an awesome new book, a toy they’ve asked for repeatedly at the grocery store, a sweet new headband, cash, etc.). Tell them they can choose to leave candy out for the Witch, but make sure it’s a substantial amount. It’s up to you where to leave the candy for the Witch, but we suggest leaving it on a kitchen table or somewhere away from the child’s room in order to ensure success (and pop a couple of peanut butter cups in your mouth before she “arrives”). It’s like Santa Claus meets the Tooth Fairy plus Halloween all in one.

 

photo: Denny Mueller via Unsplash

Make the Switch
Put the candy on a fun tray or in a Halloween candy bucket. Have the kids make a note for the SW. Then, send them off to bed. While they’re sleeping, invoke the powers of the Switch Witch and ditch the candy. You can hide it and make it part of a Halloween candy buy-back program, just make sure your top-secret plan remains undetected. Leave the shiny new item in the place of the candy.

photo: Shutterstock 

Tips and Tricks
Be prepared for some questions about the Switch Witch. Determine her name, hair color, (and yes the SW could be a he, too) where she lives, what she does with all that candy, what her mode of transport is (broom, car, giant bird) and any other fun details that make her come to life. If the thought of a witch creeping into the house at night to take candy sounds scary to your kids, make sure you add lots of details about how nice/fun/cool/sweet she is. Be creative and have fun “tricking” the kids out of all that sugar. 
Check out this book and doll set that brings the Switch Witch right to you.

—Amber Guetebier

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Everything You Need to Know about Halloween Candy Buy-Backs 

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After the mini ghosts and goblins have eaten their share of trick-or-treating treasures the real question remains: what will you do with the pile of candy left after the big night? Before you find your fingers sneaking stealth-like into their bucket, take a peek at the 11 ideas we’ve found to put all that sugar to good use. Your waistline and your kid’s teeth will thank you.

skittlepaint_jenkossovan_halloweencandy_halloween_national_redtricycle

photo: Jen Kossovan via Mama. Papa. Bubba.

1. Create art with candy. Skittles… taste the Rainbow. Or make a rainbow with Skittle paint. Bright colors, sweet smells and a lot of smiles come out of this clever candy project we spotted over at Mama. Papa. Bubba.

dissolvingcandy_daynaabraham_halloweencandy_halloween_national_redtricycle

photo: Dayna Abraham via Lemon Lime Adventures

2. Feed curiosity with candy. Unload a few of those pesky pumpkin candies that seem to make their way down to the bottom of the bucket by joining mama Dayna Abraham of Lemon Lime Adventures for a simple science experiment. It’s as easy as grabbing a few drinking glasses, paper and curious kiddos.

guessthecandyjar

photo: Sommy Rhee

3. Have a fun math lesson by teaching the kids the art of estimation. Guess how much candy is in the jar? It can be a fun ice-breaker at a birthday party, too. The winner gets to take home the whole jar.

switchwitch_gabbycullen_halloween_redtricycle

photo: Gabby Cullen

4. Give it to the Switch Witch. Encourage the kids to give up some of the candy by coaxing them into making an offering to the Switch Witch.

 

pinata_gabbycullen_national_redtricycle

photo: Gabby Cullen

5. Prep your party piñata. Yay for party planning! Halloween is the perfect time to stock up on the candy you’ll be looking for when the birthday season picks up. Stash a pile of the good stuff and save for down the road. Want to know how to make your own piñata? Grab the how-to here.

popcorntrailmix

photo: Sommy Rhee

6. Spice up family movie night. Add M&Ms, candy corn, Nerds, malted milk balls or other small sweets to your popcorn to come up with a unique trail mix.  

photo: Randalyn Hill via Unsplash

7. Save supplies for holiday gingerbread houses. Pick out the best decorative candy from the bunch and save it for the gingerbread house-making sessions that will probably be happening a few weeks from now. We love the idea of Dum Dums being used as entrance lanterns, nerds being used as the gravel walkway, and various chocolate bars being formed into furniture.

CandyBuyBack3

 

8. Let the kids sell it back. Taking extra loot to a national buyback program will not only relieve them of too much sugar, but kids will also feel good knowing their donation will allow U.S. troops overseas to get their fill of the Halloween spirit, too. Find a buyback program near you.

nestlecrunchbowls_halloweencandy_national_redtricycle

photo: courtesy meals.com

9. Use it up during your next dinner party. Gather up all the Crunch bars you can find and save them for your next dinner party. With just a little prep and a great recipe found over at Meals.com, you’ll be dishing up dessert with an added crispy shell. Want to know why leftover balloons will come in handy? Hop on over to Meals.com for the entire tutorial.

mmsbalance_trishastanley_halloweencandy_national_redtricycle

photo: Trisha Stanley via Inspiration Laboratories

10. Balance out sugar with science! For every M&M they eat, they can add one to the scale, while you talk about equal parts and balancing acts. Making your own version of this experiment is as easy as entering Inspiration Laboratories and getting the complete tutorial.

— Sommy Rhee & Gabby Cullen

 

 

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Goblins, ghosts and… garlic?! You read that right, and this new graphic novel about Garlic, a brave little veggie and delightfully unusual heroine, is one of our favorite new reads of the season—it’s the perfect Halloween treat (and won’t stick to your teeth!). If you’re looking to build confidence in your little ghoul’s reading skills (ages 6+) or just fill their fall with a cozy adventuresome read, Garlic & the Vampire by Bree Paulsen is the farm-fresh book you need on your shelf now.

Read a sample chapter of Garlic & the Vampire and add it to your collection today!

 

The Story

Garlic feels as though she’s always doing something wrong. At least with her friend Carrot by her side and the kindly Witch Agnes encouraging her, Garlic is happy to just tend her garden, where it’s nice and safe. But when her village of vegetable folk learns that a bloodthirsty vampire has moved into the nearby castle, they all agree that, in spite of her fear and self-doubt, Garlic is the obvious choice to confront him. And with everyone counting on her, Garlic reluctantly agrees to face the mysterious vampire, hoping she has what it takes. 

Garlic & the Vampire is on sale now—get your copy today!

Glowing Reviews for This Brave Little Garlic

"In this down comforter of a graphic novel, Garlic discovers that she is braver and more capable than she ever believed when she is called upon to save her friends. The color palette is folkloric, drawing on lush earth tones to highlight this cozy little village where people and vegetables live harmoniously—this is cottagecore through and through."

   — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred review)

"Gorgeous artwork featuring anthropomorphized plants and colors reminiscent of those used in Kate Greenaway stories make this a joy to read... Perfect for chapter-book readers and up, this will delight anyone wanting a light adventure heavy on friendship and self-actualization."

   — Booklist

Start reading Garlic & the Vampire with your little ghouls today!

 

—Jamie Aderski

 

 

When it comes to movies for kids, there’s nothing like a few Disney movies to fit the bill. We sorted through dozens of expert reviews and popular opinions in order to curate this list of the top 17 Disney animated movies of all time, so if you’re looking for endearing storylines and characters your littles can look up to, look no further. Scroll down to find your next pick for family movie night!

Luca (2021)

Common Sense Media

Luca may look like an average boy. Even though he has two legs, two arms and all the other aesthetics of a human, he’s really a sea monster from another world that lies just below the surface of the ocean. Follow along as an unusual friendship develops along the Italian Riviera between a local human and a sea monster in this new original movie from Pixar.

Rated PG

Watch here

The Princess and the Frog (2009)

The first Disney movie to feature a Black heroine, this fun and sometimes spooky film has a great message for kids about ambition, hard work and friendship. Tiana is a girl whose goal is to open the finest restaurant in New Orleans, and she is very clear about the fact she doesn't need a prince to be happy. Of course, she inadvertently finds one anyway when she meets Prince Naveen, who has been turned into a frog by an evil witch doctor. Naveen convinces Tiana to kiss him to break the spell—which backfires when it turns her into a frog as well. Adventures ensue as the duo journeys through the bayou in search of a spell to turn them back into humans. 

Rated G

Recommended ages: 6+

Watch here

Wreck-It Ralph (2012)

If you've got kids who love video games, this is one way to switch up the screens and get them watching a movie instead. The story follows Ralph—a hulking brute who is tired of always being the bad guy in his video game and so sets out to prove he's not so bad after all. In his quest, he abandons his own game and hops through a variety of others—which causes some major trouble in the arcade world and threatens to wipe out everything. Through it all, of course, he learns important lessons about friendship.   

Note: There are some scenes with guns and shooting (they take place in shooter-style video games), plus some potty humor ("butt" and "doody") that kids will likely love. 

Rated PG

Recommended ages: 6+

Watch here

Tangled (2010)

Rapunzel is no helpless maiden in this retelling of the famous fairy tale. This spunky modern heroine isn't afraid to stand up for herself, fight the bad guys, leap from towers and explore the big, wide world while searching for her true identity. There is mild violence—and the fact that Rapunzel has been kidnapped and manipulated by a witch who seeks only youth and beauty may be a bit heavy for kids who get it—but all in all, kids will love the action, music and romance in this sweet story that teaches kids to follow their dreams. 

Rated PG

Recommended ages: 5+

Watch here

The Little Mermaid (1989)

Disney's musical retelling of the age-old Hans Christian Anderson story follows the innocently rebellious Ariel, a mermaid princess who gives up her life in the ocean in an effort to be with a human prince. Of course, she must make a precarious deal with a devilishly evil sea witch to make it happen. With award-winning songs (the movie won an Oscar for Best Original Score and a Grammy for "Under the Sea") and a fair share of peril and action, the story will satisfy even kids who aren't into mermaids or princesses. 

Rated G

Recommended ages: 5+

Watch here

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

Common Sense Media

It's hard to believe that this is the first Disney movie of all time, as its story is as popular today as it was 83 years ago. The story of the "fairest of them all" and her plight to stay safe from the vain and wicked queen is a timeless one, though it does contain some dated concepts about women. There are some frightening moments, including when the queen orders her huntsman to kill Snow White and she must escape through a spooky enchanted forest (and, of course, there's that famous poisoned apple). But still, generations of kids have watched and loved this classic Disney film—and yours likely will, too.   

Note: Since this film was made in the early 20th century, it depicts dated gender stereotypes that some people might find offensive (i.e. Snow White decides that the dwarfs must need a woman around to clean their house). As long as you can put that aside, this movie still belongs on your go-to list of classics. 

Rated G

Recommended ages: 5+

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Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

This movie has a huge cult following and it's no surprise why. Pumpkin King Jack Skellington wants to spread Christmas cheers to children far and wide but will his efforts put Santa in jeopardy? You'll have to watch to find out!

Rated PG

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Pinocchio (1940)

Amazon

Disney's second animated film still holds timeless lessons about honesty and love. Pinocchio is a wooden puppet who must learn to listen to his conscience and resist temptations (like skipping school) in order to become a "real boy." While all ends happily, there are some scary visuals—including a scene where droves of naughty little boys are turned into donkeys and carted away, as well as another scene where Pinocchio and his father are swallowed by a giant whale. Goodness and heroism prevail, of course, so kids should be sufficiently cheered by the movie's end. 

Rated G

Recommended ages: 6+

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Zootopia (2016)

When a spunky bunny sets out to crack a case, she has to team up with a scam artist fox to get the job done. 

Rated: PG

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Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)

Travel to the fantasy world of Kumandra, where humans and dragons live together in harmony. When evil arrived in the land, the dragons sacrificed themselves to save humanity. No, 500 years later, lone warrior Raya must track down the fabled last dragon to battle the evil that has once again returned to the land. 

Rated PG

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Moana (2016)

Characters from Moana

Parents will love the fact the main character in this film is a girl who doesn't need a prince to find her happily-ever-after. Littles will love the catchy songs, fun characters (Dwayne Johnson's Maui almost steals the show) and lighthearted peril as they watch Moana, the daughter of the village chief, on her quest to restore her island's vitality and return the heart of the ocean. 

Rated PG

Recommended ages: 5+

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The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977)

Common Sense Media

A. A. Milne's beloved classic stories come to beautiful life in this classic Disney film. Kids will learn sweet lessons about friendship and loyalty as they watch Pooh-bear bumble his way through the Hundred Acre Wood with his beloved pals. And, the fact there's no bad guys or scary parts means even the tiniest of Pooh-fans can get in on the fun. 

Rated G

Recommended ages: 3+

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Soul (2020)

Delve into deep questions like, "What makes you, YOU?" with this Pixar feature that takes you from the streets of New York City to The Great Before. Main character Joe Gardner (voiced by Jamie Foxx) teams up with a precocious soul to try and get back to Earth. 

Rated PG

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Cinderella (1950)

Cinderella may be the classic damsel in distress sort of fairy tale, but this kind cinder girl's journey toward happily-ever-after can actually be a great way to get your kids thinking about empathy and kindness (talking about how the stepsisters treat Cinderella, for one, is a good way to address the importance of kindness). Plus, who can forget those classic songs, including "A Dream is A Wish Your Heart Makes" and "Bippety Boppety Boo" There's a reason Cinderella has been Disney's most popular princess for 70 years now, so hop aboard the pumpkin-turned-carriage and let it take you away, too. 

Rated G

Recommended ages: 4+

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The Lion King (1994)

The Circle of Life takes center stage in this dramatic story about a lion who steps up to fulfill his destiny and save his pride. There are some scary moments—namely, the orchestrated death of young Simba's father by a stampede of wildebeests as well as a vicious lion-on-lion fight—but the movie is, in the end, an inspiring one filled with memorable music (Elton John wrote many of the songs) and important lessons of bravery and responsibility. 

Rated G

Recommended ages: 6+ 

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Frozen 1 and 2 (2013 and 2019)

If you haven't already gotten your share of "Let It Go" or "Into the Unknown," now's as good a time as any. With (clearly) Broadway-caliber showstoppers and a storyline that's as fun for adults as it is for kids, it's clear to see why these two were record-breaking blockbusters. Both films emphasize the importance of friends and family, with the bond between sisters Elsa and Anna prioritized above all. Kids will love seeing the sisters each surmount their personal challenges while staying true to themselves. There are a few scary moments in both films, but most kids over five will be unequivocally entranced. 

Rated: PG

Recommended ages: 5+

Watch here

—Kate Loweth & Melissa Heckscher

Featured image: iStock 

 

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You asked and Hershey’s answered: Vampire Kisses are back! The red, strawberry-flavored creme center and bat-wrapped treat makes this this must-have candy for Halloween.

Vampire Hershey’s Kisses are made with milk chocolate and are joined by other spooky sweets. You’ll be able to grab Reese’s Franken-Cups, KIT KAT Witch’s Brew and Hershey’s Cookies ‘N’ Crème Fangs.

Hershey's Vampire Kisses
But back to the Vampire Kisses: they’ll be available for a limited time in a 9 oz. bag at retailers nationwide for about $3.59.

—Karly Wood

Photos: Courtesy of Target

 

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It’s almost Hocus Pocus season––er, Halloween! If your family is a fan of the 90’s cult classic, this new book will up your family movie night.

Ulysses Press is getting ready to drop The Unofficial Hocus Pocus Cookbook: Bewitchingly Delicious Recipes for Fans of the Halloween Classic, 28 years after the freaky film debuted. The 60+ collection of recipes boasts must-make meals that bring the film to life, like Mischief Night Pasta and Baked Witch Casserole.

Compiled with recipes from Bridget Thoreson, kids and adults alike will thoroughly enjoy running amok, amok, amok over William’s Wormy Bed Dirt Cake while enjoying your family movie night. Thoreson shares, “While blondies are no substitute for Bette and no cocktail is quite as funny as hearing a young girl humiliate her older brother by saying ‘Yabos,’ I hope you’ll find the recipes and references fun, delicious, and delightfully spooky, and you’ll rewatch the film again and again accompanied by the goodies in this booo-ooooo-ooook.”

The Unofficial Hocus Pocus Cookbook: Bewitchingly Delicious Recipes for Fans of the Halloween Classic ($15.99) goes on sale Sept. 7, but you can already pre-order on Amazon.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Ulysses Press

 

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