All-Age Delights: Top Anime Movies for Kids and Tweens
Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through the world of anime,
where we've carefully curated a selection of enchanting films perfect for
children aged 5+ and tweens up to 12. From magical realms to thrilling
adventures, these handpicked movies are designed to entertain and inspire
young viewers. Get ready to discover heartwarming tales, unforgettable
characters, and a whole lot of family-friendly anime fun. It's time to dive
into the all-age delights that await in this mesmerizing realm!
Unforgettable Anime Adventures for the Whole Family: Best Movies to Watch with Your Kids
Recently, I discovered a new type of film that my 7-year-old daughter and I
enjoyed a lot: Anime. Anime is actually a type of cartoon or animation, with
the only difference being that it originates from Japan.
According to Wikipedia, anime is described as "hand-drawn and computer
animation originating from or associated with Japan."
For a long time, I kept myself away from anime-style animation. However, just
a year ago, I decided to give it a chance with Spirited Away (2001). I really
liked it, so I made the decision to explore more anime, especially the works
of Japanese director Hayao Miyazaki.
In fact, Spirited Away wasn't the first anime I watched. Years ago, I had the
opportunity to watch Howl's Moving Castle (2004). It had a different style of
drawing, storytelling, and especially a different type of fantasy world and
imagination—blending elements from the real world with fantastic elements.
After trying Spirited Away (2001) almost a year ago, I searched and chose
another anime movie from Miyazaki's work: Princess Mononoke (1997). From the
very beginning, my daughter, who was sitting beside me, got scared by the
image of the beast appearing at the start of the movie. So, I realized that
this one is not suitable for kids. However, I continued watching and later
enjoyed My Neighbor Totoro (1988).
Right from the start, it was clear that My Neighbor Totoro (1988) is truly
meant for kids. I paused watching it until I could watch it together with my
daughter. She thoroughly enjoyed My Neighbor Totoro (1988) and developed a
general fondness for anime movies. Since then, we have explored many others
together.
Top Anime Movies for Kids: Handpicked by a 7-Year-Old
Recently, I asked her which of these anime movies she liked the most. The
following list was compiled by my 7-year-old daughter. If you have a child
and are looking for anime movies that he or she will enjoy, consider trying
these:
1. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
The story revolves around a family with two girls, one of whom is very young
and not yet attending school. The family moves to a new house, where they
encounter small creatures—tiny, yet sweet and cute. The little girl follows
one of these creatures to a large tree and meets their "neighbor," Totoro.
Totoro is a huge, but adorable and incredibly friendly creature. Kids will
truly adore Totoro, the cat bus, and other fantastic elements in this movie.
It seems this anime was specially crafted for a young audience, but even
adults will find enjoyment in it.
"My Neighbor Totoro" is my daughter's favorite anime. If you're looking for
anime recommendations, don't miss out on this one.
- Directed by Hayao Miyazaki
- Written by Hayao Miyazaki
2. Ponyo (2008)
Ponyo will transport you and your little ones to a fantasy world beneath the sea. In this enchanting tale, a magical goldfish encounters a boy named Sosuke, who names her Ponyo. However, Ponyo is no ordinary fish; she is the daughter of Fujimoto, a once-human wizard/scientist, and Granmamare, the Goddess of Mercy and Queen of the ocean. When Ponyo licks Sosuke's finger, she tastes his human blood from a small cut. This sets in motion a transformation wherein Ponyo can become a real girl and relinquish her magical powers. However, like in all fairy tales, there is always a condition, similar to the one found in Hans Christian Andersen's story, "The Little Mermaid." This movie shares similarities with Andersen's tale.- Directed by Hayao Miyazaki
- Written by Hayao Miyazaki
3. The Cat Returns (2002)
If you or your child is fond of cats, you will thoroughly enjoy this
movie. The protagonist, Haru Yoshioka, is a quiet and shy girl who attends
high school. What she doesn't know is that she possesses the ability to
communicate with cats, although she can't remember it due to her
suppressed powers. One day, Haru rescues a cat from being hit by a truck
on the road. However, this cat is not an ordinary feline—it is the Prince
of the Cat Kingdom. Grateful for saving their prince, the cats invite Haru
to marry him, thus embarking on an adventure to the cat kingdom. Kids will
find numerous scenes that will bring laughter and joy.
- Directed by Hiroyuki Morita
- Screenplay by Reiko Yoshida
- Based on The Cat Returns by Aoi Hiiragi
4. The Secret World of Arrietty (2010)
This movie delves into the lives of tiny people who reside secretly around the world. They have a peculiar habit of borrowing things, such as sugar, from regular-sized people. Due to their activities, they are known as "Borrowers." However, if they are ever spotted, they encounter significant problems and must relocate to a new place. In this story, a boy named Sho catches a glimpse of one of these Borrowers—a girl named Arrietty—and thus begins their improbable friendship. The movie's premise reminds me of Anderson's fairy tale Thumbelina.- Directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi
- Screenplay by Hayao Miyazaki and Keiko Niwa
- Based on The Borrowers by Mary Norton
5. Howl's Moving Castle (2004)
This anime film isn't just intended for children—it's also highly enjoyable for adults. It weaves the tale of two young individuals: Sophie, a girl who is cursed by a witch and transformed into an old woman, and Howl, a young wizard. Set in a fictional fantasy kingdom, the story encompasses elements of magic, witches, and wizards. The movie also explores the backdrop of warring kingdoms, with Howl residing in a remarkable moving house—often referred to as a moving castle. Love serves as a prominent theme throughout the film, while strong anti-war sentiments are also conveyed. Howl's Moving Castle was the first anime movie I watched, and I genuinely appreciated it.- Directed by Hayao Miyazaki
- Screenplay by Hayao Miyazaki
- Based on Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
Best Anime Movies Chosen by My 11-Year-Old Daughter
It has been four years since I wrote this blog post with the intention of
providing parents with a list of good and safe anime movies for their
children. My original list primarily consisted of anime movies with a
recommended age rating of 5+ and suitable for a general audience.
Now, I am expanding this list as time has passed and my daughter and I
have watched more anime movies. Her preferences in anime have also
evolved. While she used to love "My Neighbor Totoro" and "Ponyo," her
favorite animes have changed. As I mentioned earlier, her initial viewing
of Princess Mononoke (1997) wasn't pleasant. However, it has now become
her all-time favorite and the number one best anime in her opinion. Now
that she is 11 years old, I asked her to share her current favorite anime
movies. Here is the list:
1. Princess Mononoke (1997)
Experience the epic journey of Princess Mononoke, directed by the renowned
Hayao Miyazaki. Set in a fantasy world filled with magical creatures and
warring factions, this visually stunning masterpiece explores the delicate
balance between humans and nature. As the young warrior Ashitaka navigates
a complex conflict, he encounters the fierce and independent Princess
Mononoke, challenging his perspectives on life, loyalty, and the true
nature of civilization.
- Directed by Hayao Miyazaki
- Screenplay by Hayao Miyazaki
- Based on Original Story by Hayao Miyazaki
2. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
Immerse yourself in the post-apocalyptic world of Nausicaä of the Valley
of the Wind, a mesmerizing tale crafted by the visionary Hayao Miyazaki.
Follow the courageous Princess Nausicaä as she seeks harmony between
humanity and the toxic wilderness. With breathtaking animation and
thought-provoking themes, this film showcases Miyazaki's unparalleled
storytelling prowess and his deep connection to environmental issues.
- Written and Directed by Hayao Miyazaki
- Based on Manga by Hayao Miyazaki
3. Wolf Children (2012)
Delve into the heartfelt story of Wolf Children, directed by Mamoru
Hosoda. This touching film follows the journey of a young mother named
Hana, who raises her half-human, half-wolf children with unwavering love
and determination. As they navigate the challenges of their dual nature
and face the complexities of the human world, Wolf Children beautifully
explores the themes of family, identity, and the strength of a mother's
love.
- Directed by Mamoru Hosoda
- Screenplay by Mamoru Hosoda
4. A Whisker Away (2020)
Embark on a whimsical adventure with A Whisker Away, directed by Junichi
Sato and Tomotaka Shibayama. This enchanting tale follows the young and
spirited Miyo, who discovers a mysterious mask that allows her to
transform into a cat. Desperate to get closer to her crush, she embarks on
a captivating journey between the human and feline worlds, learning
valuable lessons about love, self-acceptance, and the importance of
embracing one's true self along the way.
- Directed by Junichi Sato and Tomotaka Shibayama
- Screenplay by Mari Okada
5. Spirited Away (2001)
Step into the magical realm of Spirited Away, a beloved masterpiece
written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Join the brave young girl Chihiro
as she finds herself trapped in a mysterious spirit world. To rescue her
parents and find her way back home, Chihiro must navigate a whimsical
bathhouse filled with fantastical creatures and confront her deepest
fears. This visually stunning film weaves a mesmerizing tale about
courage, resilience, and the power of the human spirit.
- Written and Directed by Hayao Miyazaki
Anime movies with age ratings and recommended age.
However, there are many more fantastic anime movies worth watching. To
help you explore the world of anime, I have compiled a general list of
movies with their corresponding age ratings and recommended ages. Here is
the list:
| Title (Year) | Age Rating | /Recommended Age |
|---|---|---|
| My Neighbor Totoro (1988) | G | 5+ |
| Ponyo (2008) | G | 5+ |
| The Cat Returns (2002) | G | 5+ |
| The Secret World of Arrietty (2010) | G | 5+ |
| Howl's Moving Castle (2004) | G | 5+ |
| Princess Mononoke (1997) | PG-13 | 13+ |
| Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984) | PG | 7+ |
| Wolf Children (2012) | PG | 7+ |
| A Whisker Away (2020) | PG | 7+ |
| Spirited Away (2001) | PG | 7+ |
| Children Who Chase Lost Voices (2011) | PG | 7+ |
| Pom Poko (1994) | PG | 7+ |
| The Wind Rises (2013) | PG | 7+ |
| Kiki's Delivery Service (1989) | PG | 7+ |
| Castle in the Sky (1986) | PG | 7+ |
| Tales from Earthsea aka Gedo Senki (2006) | PG-13 | 13+ |
| When Marnie Was There (2014) | PG | 7+ |
| The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013) | PG | 7+ |
| Mirai (2018) | PG | 7+ |
| Wolf Children (2012) | PG | 7+ |
| The Boy and the Beast (2015) | PG-13 | 13+ |
| Mary and the Witch's Flower (2017) | PG | 7+ |
| A Whisker Away (2020) | PG | 7+ |
| Summer Wars (2009) | PG | 7+ |
| Castle in the Sky (1986) | PG | 7+ |
| Whisper of the Heart (1995) | G | 5+ |
| Pom Poko (1994) | PG | 7+ |
| Ocean Waves (1993) | PG | 7+ |
| The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006) | PG-13 | 13+ |
| The Red Turtle (2016) | PG | 7+ |
| Porco Rosso (1992) | PG | 7+ |
| From Up on Poppy Hill (2011) | PG | 7+ |
| Lu Over the Wall (2017) | PG | 7+ |
| Your Name (2016) | PG | 7+ |
| Grave of the Fireflies (1988) | PG-13 | 13+ |
| The Garden of Words (2013) | PG | 7+ |
| Tokyo Godfathers (2003) | PG-13 | 13+ |
The recommended ages are just a suggestion, and ultimately parents should decide what is appropriate for their children. Here's an explanation for the commonly used age ratings:
- G (General Audience): The content is suitable for all ages. There is no material that parents would find unsuitable for children. It's considered appropriate for viewers of all ages, including young children.
- PG (Parental Guidance): Some material may not be suitable for children. Parents are encouraged to provide "parental guidance" to determine if the content is appropriate for their children. There might be mild language, some violence, or brief scenes that could be scary or intense for younger viewers.
- PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned): Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 years of age. Parents are urged to be cautious and evaluate whether the content is suitable for their teenagers. The movie might contain moderate language, violence, thematic elements, or suggestive content that may not be suitable for younger viewers.
I am also seeking anime movie recommendations for kids. If there are any
anime movies that you have watched and enjoyed, and you believe children
would love them too, please share your suggestions in the comments below.
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Thanks for posting to my blog. My kids really love anime, but some are really inappropriate for young ones. Thank you for the suggestions.
Welcome. and Enjoy. Also visited your blog. Cute pet you have there.
I have never had an interest in anime because they are usually associated with non-children friendly themes. It is interesting to learn that there are anime made especially for children too.
Mostly yes. Thats why it is important to know which one is for kids.
Howl's Moving Castle is my favourite Miyazaki film. I'm surprised you don't have Spirited Away in here.
Spirited Away is also good. But not so interesting for small kids. Mostly for adults.
I love Spirited Away and Ponyo. It should be in anyone's list. :)
I love spirited away and ponyo. They really are some great movies and my kids will actually sit down and watch them from start to finish as well
I am not really fan of anime movies and I don't have children too, but The Cat Returns seems interesting since I happen to love cats too. This list is appropriate for my boyfriend too since he loves anime movies.
I'm sure my kids are going to love these movies. Thanks for the list.
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Anime movies are good and I think my kids would love watching it.
You got a great list. My kids used to watched this before when there young.
My kids favorite is Spirited Away!
Oh wow will check this out
Spirited Away is my fav, I have an obsession with Japanese animation I find then interesting
Miyazaki films are great. I love Howl's Moving Castle, and I love the book more!
Oh my! you just published all that I wanted to share to everyone as well. I love all this anime movies and I still have a long list. Miyazaki is the best!
The Secret World of Arrietty is such a cute movie! Definitely recommend it :) Thanks for sharing!
I still like to watch animated movies. You have got great list.
We love so many from your list!
Great list of movies! I love all of these especially Howl's moving castle.