(951) 674-9400
information@kamalii.org
Movies can be a treasure trove of knowledge and emotional intelligence for children. That’s why it’s so important to encourage kids to watch films that offer valuable life lessons. Kamali’i understands the importance of spending quality time with your children and wants to share five fantastic family-friendly movies. These films will spark discussions about adoption, help kids navigate their emotions, and provide plenty of happy, fun moments for everyone to enjoy together.
Inside Out Movies
“Inside Out” is a wonderful and intellectual film that helps people understand the emotions in our minds. Riley, the sweet young girl in the movie, is growing into a remarkable person. We get a glimpse inside her head and learn all about her emotions and what drives her as a human being. Joy, her lead emotion, takes us on a journey of learning and development.
We have so many emotions inside us, and this is especially true for children in the foster care system, who may not fully understand or recognize their feelings. This movie brilliantly compiles these complex emotions within two hours, making it both fun and emotional to watch.
Countless people have expressed how they wish they had this movie growing up, as it does an excellent job of explaining the development of emotions and how each one is necessary and protective. Every emotion is important.
“Inside Out 2,” released in 2024, delves into the tween and adolescent years, making it even more relatable. These movies are incredibly valuable for understanding how our brains work and where our feelings stem from. They reveal how memories are stored in our minds and show us how much we hold within ourselves without realizing it. This can truly set up essential blueprints for a child growing up in today’s world.
Meet The Robinsons
This beautiful and moving family movie delves into foster care and adoption in a wildly futuristic and creative way. The story revolves around Lewis, a boy genius and 12-year-old inventor, who is desperate to be adopted. Lewis takes us on a journey through his imaginative inventions and meets Wilbur Robinson, a young time-traveler who transports him to the year 2037 to visit his eccentric family. Together, they must stop a mysterious bowler-hatted man from changing Lewis’ fate and altering the future. The film’s creativity and charming twist at the end will warm your heart.
This movie can spark important conversations about adoption and how it varies for everyone. Each adoption story is unique, and this film beautifully illustrates the countless ways the world can unfold. It’s a moving and equally fun experience to watch with the family, encouraging discussions and filling everyone’s hearts with hope and joy.
The Odd Life Of Timothy Green
This delicate and moving story is one that will likely bring tears of gratitude for the situations we find ourselves in. Cindy and Jim Green long for a child but are unable to conceive. In a heartfelt gesture, they bury a box in their backyard, filled with their wishes for what their child might be like. Miraculously, a boy named Timothy (CJ Adams) appears at their door, teaching the Greens that sometimes the most unexpected events bring life’s greatest gifts. Timothy has leaves growing on his legs, marking him as a potential outcast. However, as time passes and the seasons change, Timothy begins to lose his leaves, signaling his eventual departure.
This magical movie reminds us that not all good things last, but we should cherish and be grateful for the blessings around us. It teaches the importance of wishing and remaining hopeful for the future because anything is possible. Watching this film, you’ll find yourself appreciating the unexpected gifts in life and holding onto hope for whatever lies ahead. Watching this movie with your children can be moving and super beneficial for the realizations of the world.
My Neighbor Totoro
This unique film comes from the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli, a renowned Japanese animation studio based in Koganei, Tokyo. Studio Ghibli is famous for creating spiritually rich movies that captivate both children and adults.
“My Neighbor Totoro” beautifully exemplifies this, presenting Totoro as a manifestation of a Shinto deity or ‘kami’, a benign spirit of the forest. This embodies the Shinto belief that gods can be found in all elements of nature. Totoro’s interactions with the sisters instill a deep sense of respect for the natural world. This movie introduced many Americans to Miyazaki’s signature themes: strong, independent girls as protagonists, whimsical creatures, imaginative storytelling, and a focus on family dynamics and their relationship with the environment.
“My Neighbor Totoro” is a wonderful cultural experience that can open young children’s eyes to the world around them. It’s a spiritual and compelling film that resonates with both adults and kids, making it a moving and memorable watch for the whole family. The story encourages viewers to appreciate and respect nature, fostering a sense of wonder and connection with the world.
Big Miracle
“Big Miracle” is a heartwarming and captivating film based on a true story that will touch the hearts of anyone who watches it. Whether you’re an animal lover or fascinated by real-life events, this movie highlights the power of people coming together to help whales in distress.
Adam Carlson (John Krasinski), a reporter stuck in a small northern Alaskan town, dreams of landing a job in a bigger market. Suddenly, the story of a lifetime finds him: a family of gray whales is discovered near the Arctic Circle, trapped by rapidly forming ice. As media attention grows, Rachel Kramer (Drew Barrymore), an environmental activist and Adam’s ex-lover, arrives on the scene. Together, they strive to rally an international coalition to save the whales before time runs out.
This film delves into global issues, the science of oceanography, and climate change while showcasing the incredible things humanity can achieve when faced with a problem. Watching this with the whole family will have everyone on the edge of their seats, marveling at the fact that it’s a true story. “Big Miracle” is an inspiring testament to the magic of human compassion and collaboration.
Kamali’i
Kamali’i loves a good family-friendly movie that sparks meaningful discussions and thoughts in our children’s minds. There’s immense value in sharing the amazing movies of the world with our kids. Who knows, maybe they’ll grow up inspired to create more family-friendly films that touch the hearts of everyone who watches them.
