It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…….

There is a magical atmosphere in the air among the trees and snow-covered mountains here in Canada. The days are getting shorter and the lights are twinkling in the village on our island.

Our little family values togetherness most during this time. We slow right down and draw ourselves in, baking cookies, sitting by the crackling fire, and walking the neighbourhood to see decorated homes.

In the mayhem and hustle that comes in the lead-up to the holidays, it’s essential to find that slowness, because it is through the slowness we make and hold onto memories.

One of my family’s favourite ways to do this is by embracing the Scandinavian tradition of Hygge, which centers around cosiness, comfort, and togetherness.

Think candles, blankets, fireplaces, warm mince pies, and a good Christmas movie on the screen.

“Hygge is about creating a safe place to relax with others and leave the everyday stressors outside.”

Jessica Joelle Alexander

I encourage you to try a little Hygge these holidays by grabbing your little ones, popping some corn, and brewing a cup of hot chocolate, or make it a mulled wine for the adults and cosy up with your kids. 

Maybe my Millenial or Gen X friends remember scouring the TV guide pre-Christmas for this year’s movies and highlighting their favourites while setting up the VCR to record for when your two favourites were playing simultaneously. 

Do you remember the excitement of the opening credits when your whole family gathered around the screen to enjoy some festive entertainment? 

Times have changed though and we now seem to have endless choice at our fingertips. So, if you’re wondering what to watch as you hunker down and spend some time together I’ve popped together a list of my family’s absolute favourite Christmas movies. 

These movies are perfect for those willing to be flexible with the screentime rules around Christmas but still want to make sure what they’re watching is child-friendly.

So without further ado, here are our top picks along with an age recommendation for each movie. 🍿🎅

Home Alone

Recommended Age: 7+

To me this movie is Xmas! I don’t know how many times I watched this as a teenager and now I get to watch it with my kiddo, so fun! Kevin McCallister gets accidentally left behind as his family goes off and enjoy the holidays. While Home Alone he has to defend his home from bumbling burglars with hilarious and inventive traps in this classic comedy.

Christmas Chronicles

Recommended Age: 8+

Follow the adventure of siblings Kate and Teddy as they team up with Santa Claus to save Christmas in this heartwarming, action-packed film. Funny story….we were actually in Mexico staying at the resort when they were filming Christmas Chronicles 2!

Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas

Recommended Age: 3+

A fave from when me son was a toddler! Oh, we love George in our home! Join Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat as they spread holiday cheer in this delightful and educational adventure.

Elf

Recommended Age: 11+

This is the hilarious story of Buddy the Elf (Will Farrell) who is a human boy who has been raised by elves in the North Pole. As an adult, he heads out to find his real ‘human’ family. Follow him across New York as he helps a few people reconsider what is important at this time of year. Contains some mild rude humour so parental guidance is recommended for this one!

Star

Recommended Age: 3+

A retelling of the nativity story through the eyes of the Donkey that carried Mary to Bethlehem. Follow Bo as he befriends many animals on his journey towards the Star. 

The Polar Express

Recommended Age: 4+

Embark on a magical train ride to the North Pole with a young boy who learns about friendship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas.

Frosty the Snowman

Recommended Age: 3+

Follow the adventures of Frosty, the lovable snowman brought to life by a magical hat, as he and his friends work together to save Christmas.

A Boy Called Christmas

Recommended Age: 10+

Dive into a fantastical world where a young boy named Nikolas embarks on a magical journey to find his father, becoming the legend we know as Santa Claus.

The Grinch (2018)

Recommended Age: 5+

This animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s classic tale teaches the importance of love and kindness as the Grinch learns the true meaning of Christmas.

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas

Recommended Age: 9+

Experience the unique blend of Halloween and Christmas as Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, discovers the magic of the holiday season.

Arthur Christmas

Recommended Age: 6+

Explore Santa’s high-tech operation and join Arthur, Santa’s clumsy but lovable son, on a mission to ensure every child is given a gift on Christmas.

The Snowman

Recommended Age: 3+

Told through animated pictures and music this wordless 80’s classic still holds its magic. Watch as a little boy’s snowman comes to life and takes him on an adventure to the North Pole where he meets Father Christmas and his reindeer. This one will take you back in time!

Klaus

Recommended Age: 7+

Ok, maybe it’s a baker’s dozen! We LOVE Movie #13 – Klaus, so I just had to share! Discover the heartwarming origin story of Santa Claus as a young postman named Jesper teams up with a reclusive toymaker in a remote village.

And lastly, one for Mum and Dad when the kids have finally gone to sleep! 

Love Actually

Recommended viewing: glass of wine, some yummy chocolates and the one you love.

Can we go past Christmas without a screening of this absolute classic Christmas film? My husband and I lived in London when this film came out so it holds a special place in our hearts and British humour feels like home. This heartwarming, start-studded film explores various forms of love during the holiday season in London. It’s funny, romantic, and full of touching moments. It’s your yearly reminder that that love is all around.

So pick one from the list, turn the lights down low, and create some cherished holiday memories with your family with a little bit of Hygge. 

🎄🎁 And if you’re stuck for Christmas gift ideas this year, I’ve got you covered! Download our brand new, free Christmas Gift guide for Natural Parents here.

Remember, the magic of Christmas lies not just in the presents, or the ability to do it all, but in the presence of your loved ones. 

Embrace this time together and find your own moments of slowness among it all. 

Happy holidays my friend!