As a mum who loves watching classic films with Miss 8, I can tell you there’s something truly special about introducing our children to the movies that have stood the test of time. Modern films might have all the bells and whistles, but there's a certain magic in the classics that just can’t be beaten. Whether it’s the nostalgia, the unforgettable characters, or the life lessons wrapped up in these stories, classic films have a way of staying with you long after the credits roll.
I was very fortunate growing up in Sydney. Every Saturday night, my mother allowed me to stay up late to watch The Golden Years of Hollywood with Bill Collins. It’s from there that my love for classic films began. I’ve noticed that if you don’t introduce children to classic films when they’re young, they may not appreciate golden age cinema when they’re older—much like classical music and opera. My daughter’s love for older films and shows seems to have blossomed naturally because that’s what we mostly watch at home. In fact, she steers clear of anything she deems as overly modern. To me, older films have a heart and soul that many modern movies seem to lack.
Here are five absolute gems that every child should see—films that my daughter and I never tire of watching.
1. "Greyfriars Bobby"
This one might not be as well-known, but it’s a true gem. Greyfriars Bobby is based on the true story of a little dog in 19th-century Edinburgh who showed incredible loyalty to his master. It’s a tearjerker, for sure, but it’s also a beautiful story about love, friendship, and the bond between humans and animals. My daughter and I always end up with the tissues handy when we watch this one, but it’s worth every sniffle. We are actually planning to visit Edinburgh to see his fountain and statue! Yes, that’s how much we are in love with Greyfriars Bobby!
2. "Lassie Come Home"
We absolutely adore Lassie Come Home. This heartwarming tale of loyalty and determination follows Lassie, a beautiful Collie, as she makes an incredible journey across Scotland to reunite with her young owner. With Elizabeth Taylor in one of her early roles, this film teaches children the importance of love and loyalty, and it always brings a tear to my eye. My daughter is a huge fan of animal stories, and this one is right up there as one of her favourites.
3. "The Littlest Rebel"
Shirley Temple’s charm is irresistible in The Littlest Rebel. Set during the American Civil War, this film shows a young girl’s unwavering love for her father despite the hardships they face. Watching Shirley Temple dance and sing her way through tough times is a great reminder to children about the importance of family, friendship, and staying positive no matter what life throws at you.
You can’t go past The Wizard of Oz. It’s an absolute classic that has captivated audiences for generations. My daughter and I love getting lost in the magical world of Oz, following Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion on their adventures. It’s a film that sparks the imagination while also teaching important lessons about friendship, courage, and believing in yourself. Plus, who doesn’t love a good sing-along to "Over the Rainbow"?
5. "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory"
Gene Wilder’s take on Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is nothing short of brilliant and was one of my favourite films growing up as a child. This film is whimsical, quirky, and full of lessons that still resonate today. My daughter loves the imaginative factory tour, and we always end up talking about the importance of kindness and honesty after watching it. It’s a fun, colourful movie that also has a great message about appreciating what you have.
Introducing your children to classic films is a wonderful way to spend quality time together, and these movies come with the added bonus of teaching valuable life lessons. Whether it’s the loyalty of Lassie, the resilience of Shirley Temple, or the magic of Oz, these films have a way of staying with you long after they’ve ended. So next time you’re looking for a movie night pick, why not opt for one of these timeless classics? Popcorn at the ready, and enjoy the ride down memory lane!
If you have any questions about classic films to watch with your children or would like to leave a comment, I’d love to hear from you in my comments section below.
Until next time, happy reading and thank you for being part of The Yumcha Mama community!
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Love, Mei-Ling x
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