10 Films Ideal for Newborns or Toddler's

You might not realise this at the time. But introducing a newborn child to the world of film is a very important moment in their life. It can help them understand many things. So picking the right films could make them evolve to the person they eventually become.

Another approach to this moment is also finding the right film that can keep their attention and give the parent a necessary break. Some films can even make the crankiest of babies sit in perfect silence as they they get captivated by something totally new to their senses.

Whether it is to do with the story, characters, sound or colour palette, it is something that has drawn them in and will forever be etched in their memory and imagination.

I feel I have varied my chosen 10 films as much as possible. While all 10 are entertaining in different ways. They all should make the viewer unknowingly understand valuable lessons as they begin to understand the world they live in. Some of these choices come from personal experiences as well as films I've discovered in the future that I found an aspect that young children can get something out of.

Fantasia - For many years, I have always felt this is the perfect first movie for anyone. Firstly, it breaks any language barriers as there is very little dialogue. After that, it is just a series of short stories with eye-catching imagery and famous classical pieces playing to enhance each one.

It helps a newborn understand the use of colours, light and sound to help tell a story. It also introduces them to Mickey Mouse which as a parent will be an important moment for them to witness. Also, while I'm not fully on board that playing classical music to your baby will make them smarter. I do feel it makes them react in a positive way.

I do have to mention, that there are some moments that might scare a child. But as it's a U certificate, those moments I feel are open to interpretation as I know people who actually liked the supposedly scary moments as a kid. I personally feel it's never too early for a child to be scared and this film can certainly bring out all the emotions.

Dumbo - While this is here for personal reasons, I would have probably added this to the list anyway.

This was the first film I can remember watching and others have that same memory.

This Disney animated classic tells a great message of believing in yourself and accepting differences in people.

The music is bouncy, the characters are engaging, the imagery is pleasing and it has a snappy 60 minutes duration.

Bambi - My third Disney animated classic from the 1940's in this list and is my personal favourite Disney animated feature.

What I think makes it stand out above the rest, is its perfect way of showing its younger demographic about the balance of nature as well as life and death.

While these themes may sound mature and it does include that infamous emotional moment. The execution of it I feel is a great way for a kid to understand the world they have been born into.

On a lighter side, it's gives the opportunity to introduce children to certain animals and memorable characters.

Alice In Wonderland - This brilliantly bonkers Disney animation has all the ingredients of expanding your child's imagination.

With the fast pacing, bright colour palette, colorful characters and vibrant music, this film creates a world that your kids could not have possibly imagined.

It shows how puzzling life can be and it has a strong rewatchability factor as you can see this film in different ways as you get older.

Singin' In The Rain - You can't go wrong by showing your child a musical, and this particular classic is probably the happiest film I have ever seen.

For newborns, you can just fall in love with the music and the dancing.

Also, there is the added element of having enough of an understanding of the film industry and its history.

The Many Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh - Even though the stories are almost 100 years old, the timeless themes of Winnie The Pooh stories such as the importance of friendship, helping out those in need and facing your fears will always work.

This 1977 classic saw the big screen debut of Pooh and his friends. It's structure of having three short stories can be ideal for children with short attention spans.

My Neighbor Totoro - Japanese anime has become a global genre that continues to be accepted by more and more demographics and Studio Ghibli is the perfect introduction for all ages.

For young kids, the best one to start with I feel is My Neighbor Totoro.

When two girls move to the country to be near their ill mother, their discovery of nearby forest spirits takes them on many wonderful adventures.

The lovable features of all the characters as well as the metaphors explaining the mysteries of the world through the eyes of a child is what makes this film so beloved.

Anime, especially by Studio Ghibli will have a great collection of films that your child can discover as they get older.

The Lion King - What is there to say that hasn't already been said about the peak of 90's Disney animation.

From the opening note, you are instantly sucked into this world full of rich landscape, music, characters and story.

Also, it's themes of the importance of family, society and coming of age comes across well for even the youngest of children to understand.

Toy Story - A timeless modern classic that anyone can fall in love with. Even at a really young age, seeing a film that makes you wonder if your toys are really alive can blow anyone's mind.

Virtually any film from Pixar can work for a kid. But beginning their journey into films from this studio has to start with Toy Story.

If your child is ever felling down, this for many is a great pick-me-up.

Shaun The Sheep Movie - The most recent in this list and like Fantasia, is another one that breaks the language barrier.

It's silent cinema style of story-telling still engages audiences of today and with great effect.

Aardman Animations style of humor is perfect for all ages. It also has plenty of endearing characters along with a style of animation that is a must-see for youngsters.

However, if you want your child to see Shaun The Sheep before he went solo, then watching A Close Shave along with all the other iconic Wallace And Gromit shorts might be a wise option before seeing this.