Movies That Promote Communication

Communication seems easier than ever when you can send a text to someone on the other side of the world in an instant, but it's an important character strength for kids' growth and development. There's more to communication than words on a page or screen, and that's where these movies come in. This list is full of films that help teach kids the value of thoughtful listening and clear expression, as well as the importance of honoring differences and being respectful. They also feature characters who express their true selves and learn how their words and actions affect others. And remember to check out our list of TV shows that promote communication.

Filter by:
A Bug's Life Poster Image
MOVIE

A Bug's Life

age 5+

Cute animated tale with some mild peril and scary bugs.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1998)
Charlotte's Web (2006) Poster Image
MOVIE

Charlotte's Web (2006)

age 5+

Enchanting take on a beloved children's classic.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2006)
Cars 3 Poster Image
MOVIE

Cars 3

age 6+

Some intense scenes in story of empowerment, mentorship.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2017)
Despicable Me 2 Poster Image
MOVIE

Despicable Me 2

age 6+

More minions and romance make for a sweet, silly sequel.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2013)
Klaus Poster Image
MOVIE

Klaus

age 6+

Santa origin story is a sweet reminder of generosity.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2019)
Inside Out Movie Poster: Riley's emotions stand in a group, Joy throwing her hands wide
MOVIE

Inside Out

age 6+

Creative, clever story about big feelings has peril, scares.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2015)
The Iron Giant Poster Image
MOVIE

The Iron Giant

age 6+

Touching robot-kid friendship tale has great messages.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1999)
Smallfoot Poster Image
MOVIE

Smallfoot

age 6+

Fun, feel-good animated musical offers positive messages.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2018)
E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial Poster Image
MOVIE

E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial

age 7+

Spielberg's family classic is still one of the best.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1982)
Song of the Sea Poster Image
MOVIE

Song of the Sea

age 7+

Beautiful Irish tale explores myths, sibling relationship.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2014)
Brave Poster Image
MOVIE

Brave

age 8+

Mother-daughter princess tale has some very scary scenes.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2012)
Close Encounters of the Third Kind Poster Image
MOVIE

Close Encounters of the Third Kind

age 8+

Suspenseful, thoughtful alien-encounter classic.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1977)
Fly Away Home Poster Image
MOVIE

Fly Away Home

age 8+

Thrilling, touching adventure for animal lovers.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1998)
The Year Earth Changed Poster Image
MOVIE

The Year Earth Changed

age 8+

Vivid, intense docu shows wildlife changes during pandemic.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2021)
Barbara Lee: Speaking Truth to Power Poster Image
MOVIE

Barbara Lee: Speaking Truth to Power

age 10+

Heartfelt doc celebrates politician's integrity, compassion.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2021)
McFarland, USA Poster Image
MOVIE

McFarland, USA

age 10+

Poignant story about Latino runners a winner for families.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2015)
Emma Poster Image
MOVIE

Emma

age 10+

Perfect for warmhearted family entertainment.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1996)
Maiden Poster Image
MOVIE

Maiden

age 11+

Poignant, thrilling tale of groundbreaking female sailors.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2019)
12 Angry Men Poster Image
MOVIE

12 Angry Men

age 12+

Outstanding Henry Fonda jury classic is still relevant.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1957)
Life, Animated Poster Image
MOVIE

Life, Animated

age 12+

Unforgettable doc about autism, communication, Disney.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2016)