We all remember when substitute teachers would pop in a movie and we had the next 45-minutes to unwind. Well, school-based movies aren’t just for slacking off. They can be a great way to get kids excited to go back to school, and to initiate conversations about school concerns.
With these great school-themed movies, motivating kids to get excited about going back to school may not be so hard for you or your nanny.
1. “School of Rock” (PG-13)
This story is about a lazy, out-of-work musician who takes a prep school class and turns it into a band is fun and entertaining. It illustrates that lessons can be learned in many places.
Talk to the kids about: Their interest in music, using music to learn, and examples of both good and bad behaviour.
2. “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” (PG)
The book version of this series is credited with introducing 21-century children to the joys of reading. Watching Harry make friends and navigate Hogwarts bring out some concerns about your child starting school.
Talk to the kids about: Trying new things and interacting with kids they don’t know.
3. “Akeelah and the Bee” (PG)
This movie illustrates themes such as setting high expectations for yourself, overcoming obstacles and doing the right thing — even if it costs you.
Talk to the kids about: Akeelah has to face some challenges on her path. How would your kids face similar challenges?
4. “Bridge to Terabithia” (PG)
This story provides the chance to talk to kids about difficult subjects such as friendship and death. It showcases how to be yourself even when you stand out, as well as supporting friends who may are bullied.
Talk to the kids about: The movie also provides the opportunity to talk to kids about bullying, death and losing a close friend. Learn how to talk to kids about bullying»
5. “Freaky Friday” (1976 is Rated G; 2003 is Rated PG)
What better way to understand your mom than to walk in her shoes? There’s an element that helps kids understand where their parent is coming from.
Talk to the kids about: Name a time you both wish you could have changed places with each other, and why.
6. “Mean Girls” (PG-13)
One of the trickiest things about being a girl is navigating the social hierarchy of school. Although it is set in high school, it’s also appropriate for older middle school girls, where click-ish behaviour is also part of the everyday life.
Talk to the kids about: How they would handle the social behaviours and bullying exhibited by the teen stars. Learn who of their acquaintances they could see playing the roles.
7. “The Clique” (PG)
The story revolves around Claire, an ordinary teen who moves into a posh New York town. The clique in this movie is as mean as they come, and although Claire isn’t fond of their behaviour, she still wants to be friends with them.
Talk to the kids about: What to do when they are confronted with changing their personality to fit in.
8. “Mad Hot Ballroom” (PG)
This documentary follows a group of kids in New York who discover a love for ballroom dancing. It’s a fantastic and uplifting story of how kids in tough situations can thrive through extra-curricular activities.
Talk to the kids about: The lessons this special group of kids displayed and how they can apply it to their own life.
9. “The Breakfast Club” (R)
Although made in the ‘80s, the feelings of isolation, conformity and not fitting in are still prevalent.
Talk to the kids about: Beware of inappropriate scenes, but use them as a talking point, or something to reference later.
10. “The Little Princess” (G)
It shows how life can change at a moment’s notice and how important it is to stay positive.
Talk to the kids about: The importance of imagination in everyday life and how things can change quickly with no warning.
In the comments section below, share some of your favourite movies about school.
Best Back-to-school Advice from the Movies
