The Best Kids' Entertainment of 2024
Dive into this year's standout picks that inspire questions about kindness, courage, representation, and our ever-changing world.
This year's best picks are all about "Did you see that?!" We've scoured the screens and shelves for media that's not just fun, but also sparks those "wait, rewind, let's chat" moments. Whether they're about technology's role in our lives, redefining courage, or examining relationships, these stories help connect your family around the topics that matter most.
Explore our top-rated movies, TV shows, books, and international releases—each designed to entertain, inspire, and spark those essential parent-kid chats.
Best Movie of 2024 – The Wild Robot
Based on Peter Brown's beloved book, The Wild Robot is a gorgeously animated, heartwarming tale that captivates both kids and adults. It follows Roz, a robot stranded on a remote island, as she learns to navigate survival, relationships, and her unexpected role as a parent in an untamed, wild world. With breathtaking visuals, memorable characters, and a perfect balance of humor and heartfelt moments, this must-see movie blends thought-provoking themes about technology, the environment, and the meaning of family into a story that stays true to its award-winning source material.
You Can Talk to Your Kids About
- Role models: Which characters inspire you? What traits or actions make them admirable?
- Technology's role: How does Roz compare to the AI we use today? How does her behavior show what it means to be a person, even though she's a robot?
- Kindness as survival: How do kind acts ripple through Roz's journey? How can kindness shape real-world challenges?
Rounding out our top five movie picks from 2024 are Puffin Rock and the New Friends (age 3+), Inside Out 2 (age 6+), Wicked (age 10+), and Didi (age 14+).
See the full list here.
Best TV Show of 2024 – Agatha All Along
A bold, cheerfully campy addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Agatha All Along puts the spotlight on Kathryn Hahn's Agatha Harkness in a series that redefines the superhero genre. With sharp humor, memorable performances, and women-driven storytelling, it's a standout for older kids and teens.
You Can Talk to Your Kids About
- Challenging superhero standards: How is Agatha All Along different from typical MCU fare?
- Comedy styles: What makes this show funny? Where else have you seen this kind of humor?
- Representation: How does having women in the lead—behind and in front of the camera—impact the show's storytelling?
Rounding out our top five TV picks from 2024 are Carl the Collector (age 2+), Lyla in the Loop (age 5+), Max and the Midknights (age 8+), and Geek Girl (age 10+).
See the full list here.
Best Book of 2024 – Impossible Creatures: Book 1
This spellbinding fantasy introduces a hidden world of magical beings and the daring kids who are determined to protect it. Author Katherine Rundell crafts a vivid universe filled with mythical creatures and themes of courage, teamwork, and cultural storytelling.
You Can Talk to Your Kids About
- Teamwork: How do the characters' different strengths contribute to their success? Where can we find courage in our own lives?
- Fantasy and reality: Why are stories that blend the real world with magical realms so appealing? What makes this one unique?
- Cultural myths: Have you explored myths from different traditions? What do they reveal about their cultures?
Rounding out our top five book picks from 2024 are My Daddy Is a Cowboy (age 4+), Life After Whale: The Amazing Ecosystem of a Whale Fall (age 7+), The Secret Library (age 8+), and Everything We Never Had (age 10+).
See the full list here.
Best International Film of 2024 – Memoir of a Snail
This touching stop-motion animated film follows Grace, a girl embarking on an unexpected journey of healing, relationships, and resilience. It's an emotionally layered story that resonates with older teens and adults, focusing a unique lens on heavy topics.
You Can Talk to Your Kids About
- Resilience: How does Grace cope with challenges? What strengths does she develop?
- Big conversations: How does the movie deal with topics like alcohol dependency and difficult relationships? What are your family's values when it comes to these subjects?
- Visual storytelling: How does stop-motion create the story's unique feel?
Rounding out our top five international movie picks from 2024 are Puffin Rock and the New Friends (age 3+), Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story (age 6+), Kensuke's Kingdom (age 8+), and Perfect Days (age 12+).
See the full list here.
Best Game of 2024 – The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
This year's top game is an unforgettable chapter in the Zelda saga, combining breathtaking visuals, intricate puzzles, and a deep, emotional storyline. In Echoes of Wisdom, players join Zelda on a quest that weaves themes of resilience, teamwork, and the importance of preserving history. With expansive worlds to explore, engaging gameplay mechanics, and surprises that even longtime fans won't see coming, this masterpiece captures the magic of storytelling in gaming.
You Can Talk to Your Kids About
- Screen time and balance: The game isn't structured into distinct levels, so it's up to players to decide when to take breaks. What signs does your body give you when it's time to stretch or rest? Why is it important to set boundaries with activities we love?
- Zelda's evolving role: This game challenges the traditional damsel-in-distress narrative. What does it mean to see Zelda portrayed as a strategist and leader? How might stories like this influence how we think about leadership, problem-solving, and the roles that women play in stories—and in real life
- Compassion as strength: Compassion isn't often a focus in action-adventure games, but Zelda's empathetic approach is a key part of her heroism. Why is compassion a powerful strength, even in challenging situations?
Rounding out our top five international movie picks from 2024 are Princess Peach Showtime! (age 6+), MLB The Show 24 (age 8+), Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (age 13+), and Star Wars Outlaws (age 13+).
See the full list here.
This year's picks don't just entertain—they can also jump-start important conversations with your kids. Every review on our site includes thoughtful questions to help you go deeper together! From technology to courage, relationships, and representation, these stories bring a mix of heart, humor, and depth to family media time. Let us know which ones spark the best conversations in your home!
Common Sense Media offers the largest, most trusted library of independent age-based ratings and reviews. Our timely parenting advice supports families as they navigate the challenges and possibilities of raising kids in the digital age.