Are you looking for Halloween movies to watch with your kids that won’t have them clamoring to your bedroom in the middle of the night? All kids are different and what’s scary for one child may be just fine for another, so it’s hard to know what’s safe to watch on a Halloween-themed family movie night. Most of the following Halloween movies for kids are perfect for all ages, and some are geared toward older children and tweens.
Classic Halloween movies to watch with kids
Halloween movies for family: Watch these with your older kids
As someone who had difficulty watching scary movies as a child, to this day, the horror genre is just not my cup of tea. But, if you’re considering sharing your love of all things horror with your kids and want a gentle introduction to the genre, the following movies are a good start.
12. Coraline
Adapted from Neil Gaiman’s novella, Coraline has a cult following. It is an entertaining dark-fantasy story geared for children that may be too scary for some. (It’s me, I’m “some”.)
13. Monster House
Three teens realize their neighbor’s house is an actual monster determined to eat trick-or-treating kids on Halloween night and they need to investigate to save their friends. This may be another one just for the older kids, especially if your family is planning on trick-or-treating this year.
Tips for watching horror movies with kids
Patel offers some tips for watching horror movies with kids. She suggests talking to your children about themes that may be scary for them and if they’re easily frightened or have anxiety, to hold off on certain movies.
“Some negative outcomes for a kid being exposed to content that is too scary are some transient fears such as increased fear of the dark and strangers, trouble sleeping, and nightmares,” Patel explained.
If your child is interested in watching a movie you deem too scary or you want to include your child in your scary movie family night, Patel suggests first asking them how they feel about watching. Get their permission and if they’re on board, start with a mild show or movie to gauge their comfort level.
“Observe them during the movie or show and if they present fear, model how you would cope; cover your eyes, talk about it, and understand the somatic feelings they have,” she advised.
Families who wish to have some insight into the appropriateness of certain movies can utilize Common Sense Media. The site provides detailed information about movies and technology based on their suitability for children. Feedback includes insight from experts, parents, and kids and is designed to help caregivers make informed decisions about the content their children consume.
