Rainy Day Favorites: Books and Movies the Whole Family Can Agree On (Mostly)

You know those rainy Saturdays when the weather says “stay in,” the teens say “I’m bored,” the littles are bouncing off the walls, and you’re just trying to get through one hour without a remote-control standoff or a snack negotiation?

Let’s talk about family movies and read-alouds that don’t make you cringe, won’t start a sibling debate over “whose turn it is,” and might just maybe bring everyone together for a cozy cuddle (or at least keep them in the same room without arguing).

Family Movie Night Picks (That Won’t Drive You Nuts)

These are hits in our hive - big kid approved, little kid friendly, and mom-and-dad-endorsed:

• The Mitchells vs. The Machines (PG)
  Teens laugh. Littles laugh. Adults laugh. A chaotic family saves the world with tech fails, dog memes, and love.

• The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (PG)
  Still magical. Still powerful. Still gives goosebumps. (Bonus: faith themes for family convo.)

• Sing & Sing 2 (PG)
  Catchy tunes, hilarious characters, and emotional storylines that older kids relate to too.

• Paddington & Paddington 2 (PG)
  Wholesome humor, heartwarming moments, and British charm. Even teens chuckle.

• Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase (PG)
  Teen sleuthing that’s just spooky enough for popcorn-worthy fun without nightmares.

• Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (PG)
  Teens love it, tweens cheer, and even the little ones are mesmerized by the animation.

• Kung Fu Panda Trilogy (PG)
  Funny, surprisingly deep, and full of noodle-related wisdom. Great for all ages truly.

Read-Aloud Books That Work for Big & Little Kids

Reading together isn’t just for toddlers. Family read-alouds are a sweet reset even for teens (just don’t make it too obvious).

• The Green Ember by S.D. Smith
  Adventure. Bravery. Bunnies with swords. Deep values. Loved by kids and teens. Written by a Christian author.

• The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson
  Think Narnia meets LOTR with a dash of goofy humor and faith-based themes. Great read for upper elementary through teens.

• The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser
  Modern-day family chaos with big hearts and NYC charm. Tweens especially love this one.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  Powerful, compassionate, and thought-provoking for tweens and teens. Tons to talk about afterward.

• Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
  Still a tearjerker. Still a classic. Even teens find themselves quietly listening. (We see you, big kids.)

• Captain Nobody by Dean Pitchford
  Funny, meaningful, and totally underrated. Great for middle graders and tweens.

• Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan
  Humor + mythology = win. Especially with tweens and teens who aren’t into “boring” books.

Quick Tips for Family Chill Time

• Let the kids pick the snack → You pick the movie. (Or alternate!)

• Pajamas required. Complaining optional.

• Rotate who gets the big blanket *No blanket hogs allowed*

• Ask afterward: “What was your favorite part?” (Trust me, even your cool teen might surprise you.)

A Verse to Guide Us About the Media We Choose

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right… think about such things.”  Philippians 4:8 (NIV)

The stories we take in matter. Books and movies don’t just entertain - they teach, inspire, and shape conversations that linger long after the credits roll. So let’s fill our homes with wholesome stories worth remembering.

With grace, coffee & leggings,
☕ZQueenBee

4/16/2025