18 Animated Children’s Movies That Teach Empathy And Other Important Lessons

James Johnson

Animated Movies That Teach Children About Empathy And Life In General

As the father of four children, I always look for ways to teach my kids important lessons about compassion and empathy. Whether they’re interacting with each other or individuals outside of our family, I’m hyper-aware that during their formative years, everything is new, and therefore, just about any experience can be a lesson in the making.

I’m also a huge movie fan, and over the years, I’ve become keenly aware of how children’s animated films hold the unique power to convey essential life lessons through engaging stories and vibrant characters.

With themes of empathy and other life lessons weaved into fun and engaging narratives, these movies have provided invaluable opportunities for my children to see the world from different perspectives.

While hundreds of movies teach children about compassion and empathy, I’ve focused on animated films that provide storylines that emphasize understanding and emotional growth while creating narratives strong enough to keep even the most impatient of children engaged.

My four children, ages 2 through 13, have genuinely enjoyed these movies at various stages in their young lives.

Inside Out

Inside Out Movie
Photo Credit: Pixar / Disney


Inside Out follows the journey of an 11-year-old girl named Riley, whose emotions—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust—navigate her mind as she adjusts to a big move to a new city.

When Joy and Sadness get accidentally swept away from headquarters, they must work together to find their way back, learning valuable lessons about the importance of all emotions in the process.

As a bonus, 2024’s Inside Out 2 provides an excellent follow-up with new emotions that help teens tackle their teen years.

What Does Inside Out Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

Inside Out shows how each emotion has its purpose and contributes to a person’s overall well-being. Sadness, for example, plays a crucial role in connecting with others and receiving support.

The film encourages children to recognize and articulate their emotions. This understanding fosters empathy by helping them see how emotions influence actions and decisions.

Coco

Coco Animated Movie
Photo Credit: Disney

Coco is one of the most colorfully vibrant animated films I’ve seen in years, which is saying a lot for a movie whose theme centers around death, or more specifically, the rich cultural tradition of Día de los Muertos. Coco takes place in Mexico and follows the journey of a young boy named Miguel, who dreams of becoming a musician despite his family’s long-standing ban on music.

Miguel finds himself in the Land of the Dead, depicted as a bustling, colorful world where he meets his ancestors. This setting presents an ideal backdrop for lessons in empathy as Miguel learns about his family’s past and gains insights into their struggles and dreams. Along the way, he encounters various characters, each with forgotten stories.

What Does Coco Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

Throughout the film, Miguel’s journey emphasizes the importance of remembering and honoring loved ones. Coco also portrays how understanding others’ experiences can lead to reconciliation and emotional growth. It takes him a while, but Miguel eventually realizes that the love and support of family are essential for pursuing his dreams.

Coco uses music as a powerful tool to bridge generations and convey emotions. The song “Remember Me” is the heart of the movie’s central theme, highlighting the enduring connections between family members. These elements collectively create a compelling narrative that teaches empathy and the value of familial bonds.

Zootopia

Zootopia Animated Movie
Photo Credit: Disney

Zootopia is a delightful animated film that captivated my children with its vibrant animal characters and engaging storyline. Set in a world where animals co-exist regardless of their natural habitats or diets, Zootopia centers around Judy Hopps, a determined rabbit eager to prove her worth as a police officer. Alongside her is Nick Wilde, a clever fox who initially seems like an unlikely ally. Their evolving friendship underlines essential life lessons for our children to learn.

What Does Zootopia Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

At the heart of Zootopia is an exploration of themes of diversity and acceptance. It encourages children to reflect on the importance of seeing past differences and working together.

Children witness how empathy can break barriers and build connections throughout an adventure. Issues like prejudice and fear are tackled with humor and heart, making complex topics accessible to young viewers.

Zootopia’s imaginative world serves as the perfect backdrop for these important life lessons. The film’s message resonates with kids, encouraging them to appreciate the richness of diversity in their own lives.

The Iron Giant

The Iron Giant Animated Movies
Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

Released in 1999, The Iron Giant is a heartwarming animated film that stands out for its powerful themes of empathy and acceptance. Directed by animation legend Brad Bird, who also directed my favorite animated film of all time, The Incredibles, this film takes place during the Cold War era and centers around the unexpected friendship between a young boy named Hogarth Hughes and a towering robot from outer space.

Although initially feared due to its enormous size and mysterious origin, the Iron Giant quickly shows his gentle and caring nature.

What Does The Iron Giant Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

Hogarth teaches the robot about love, friendship, and compassion, which helps the giant navigate the complexities of human emotions.

The movie eloquently addresses the importance of looking beyond appearances and choosing one’s path. The robot learns he can be more than a weapon and follows his heart and ideals. This lesson extends to audiences, reminding us of the significance of understanding and compassion in our interactions.

“The Iron Giant” encourages children to be accepting and empathetic towards others who are different. With excellent screenwriting and engaging characters, this classic continues to teach valuable life lessons.

Finding Dory

Finding Dory
Photo Credit: Pixar / Disney

“Finding Dory” is an animated film that follows the loveable character Dory from Finding Nemo. This charming blue tang embarks on a quest to find her long-lost family. Accompanied by Marlin and Nemo, Dory navigates the ocean, meets new friends, and overcomes challenges throughout the movie.

What Does Finding Dory Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

Dory’s journey emphasizes the importance of family, friendship, and persistence. Her forgetfulness, while a source of humor, also highlights the need for patience and understanding. Audiences witness how accepting differences can strengthen relationships and foster deeper connections.

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Children can learn valuable lessons from Dory’s experiences. The film uses Dory’s adventures to show empathy by encouraging kids to see the world from others’ perspectives. As Dory adapts to different situations, young viewers can appreciate the value of resilience and support in overcoming life’s obstacles.

Frozen

Frozen Animated Movie
Photo Credit: Pixar / Disney

Frozen became a global sensation when it was released in 2013. The story unfolds in the kingdom of Arendelle, where audiences meet the lovable characters Elsa, Anna, and Olaf the snowman.

Elsa, the Snow Queen, possesses magical powers that allow her to control ice and snow. However, she struggles with fear and isolation because of her abilities. The film follows Elsa’s journey to accept herself and open her heart to others.

What Does Frozen Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

The relationship between Elsa and her sister, Anna, is central to the movie’s theme of empathy. Anna’s relentless love and understanding help Elsa learn she doesn’t have to face challenges alone. This exemplifies how empathy can mend broken relationships.

Olaf, the movie’s friendly snowman, brings humor and warmth to the story. His innocence and genuine kindness showcase the importance of embracing differences and supporting friends. Even in difficult situations, Olaf remains optimistic and loyal.

Frozen captures the complexity of emotions through its music and storytelling. Children learn that showing empathy often requires courage and vulnerability. The film encourages viewers to appreciate the unique qualities in others and to prioritize love and connection in their lives.

The Lion King

The Lion King Animated Movie
Photo Credit: Disney

The Lion King tells the story of Simba, a young lion prince who is forced to flee his home after the tragic death of his father, Mufasa, at the hands of his uncle, Scar. While in exile, Simba grows up alongside his carefree friends Timon and Pumbaa.

When he learns of Scar’s tyrannical rule, Simba returns to reclaim his rightful place as king. Through courage and self-discovery, Simba overcomes his past and takes his place in the Circle of Life, restoring balance to the Pride Lands.

What Does The Lion King Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

As Simba faces challenges and learns from his experiences, children see the importance of putting themselves in others’ shoes. This helps them learn to appreciate diverse perspectives and feelings. In fact, the entire “circle of life” highlights the lesson Simba learns that all life has value.

The film also does a great job of presenting powerful lessons about dealing with loss and regret. Young viewers observe Simba’s transformation as he accepts his past and embraces the future. This journey illustrates that growth often involves confronting difficult emotions head-on.

The Lion King also highlights the necessity of strong community bonds and the support of loved ones. With friendships and family connections playing crucial roles in Simba’s life, children see how empathy strengthens relationships.

WALL-E

Wall-E
Photo Credit: Disney

WALL-E is set in a future where Earth has been abandoned due to excessive waste and environmental decay. The last remaining robot, WALL-E (Waste Allocation Load Lifter: Earth-Class), spends his days cleaning up the planet, collecting trash, and compacting it into neat piles. WALL-E eventually discovers a small plant, signaling hope for Earth’s recovery.

WALL-E’s world changes when a sleek, advanced robot named EVE arrives to search for signs of life. WALL-E falls in love with EVE, and together, they embark on a journey back to the spaceship Axiom, where humans have been living for generations.

Through their adventure, they spark a movement to return to Earth and restore the planet, teaching the importance of environmental stewardship, love, and hope for the future.

What Does Wall-E Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

Through his journey, WALL-E teaches children the importance of caring for the Earth and nurturing the environment. The film highlights sustainability themes and human actions’ impact on nature, while WALL-E’s interactions with the robot Eve show the significance of companionship and understanding. Children learn about forming meaningful relationships and the value of working together towards common goals.

The movie underscores the idea that even small actions can lead to significant change, inspiring young viewers to appreciate their role in making the world better for everyone.

Soul

Soul Animated Movie
Photo Credit: Pixar

Soul follows Joe Gardner, a middle school music teacher and aspiring jazz musician, who unexpectedly has an out-of-body experience just before his big break as a professional jazz pianist.

After a fatal accident, Joe finds himself in the “You Seminar,” where souls are prepared for life on Earth. There, he meets 22, a disenchanted soul with no interest in living. As Joe and 22 embark on a journey to help him return to his body, Joe discovers that life’s true meaning isn’t about achieving fame or success but about appreciating the everyday moments that make life worthwhile.

Through this transformative experience, Soul explores themes of passion, purpose, and the joy found in simply living.

What Does Soul Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

Joe’s interactions with 22 helps both characters learn about the significance of helping each other. Their newly formed bond does a great job of showing children the impact empathy can have on our lives.

Joe’s journey also provides insight into passion, purpose, and the beauty of everyday moments.

Children and adults alike can appreciate the movie’s overall message that true fulfillment comes from pursuing passions and connecting with others. Through these experiences, Soul encourages viewers to find joy in the small moments of life.

The Good Dinosaur

The Good Dinosaur
Photo Credit: Disney

The Good Dinosaur tells the story of Arlo, a young Apatosaurus who is fearful and unsure of himself. In an alternate history where dinosaurs never went extinct, Arlo’s family runs a farm, and he is tasked with overcoming his fears to prove his worth.

After a tragic accident, Arlo is separated from his family and embarks on a journey of self-discovery with an unlikely companion—a wild, human child named Spot.

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What Does The Good Dinosaur Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

Throughout their adventure, Arlo learns the importance of bravery, friendship, and accepting himself. The film explores themes of growth, resilience, and the bond between different creatures.

Arlo’s journey also highlights the transformative power of trust and companionship. I love that the movie’s imagery and storytelling create an appealing and accessible way to convey these lessons, even to the youngest audience members.

The Good Dinosaur presents an engaging narrative that encourages kids to see the world through the eyes of others, fostering a deeper, more compassionate understanding of those around them.

Moana

Moana Animated Film
Photo Credit: Pixar / Disney

Moana follows the story of a brave young girl named Moana, who lives on the island of Motunui. As the daughter of the village chief, she is expected to become the leader of her people, but her heart longs to explore the ocean beyond the island. When her island’s crops begin to fail, Moana learns that the ancient demi-god Maui stole the heart of Te Fiti, which caused an imbalance in nature.

Moana sets sail on a daring journey to find Maui and restore the heart, despite the dangers of the ocean and her own self-doubt. Along the way, she discovers her inner strength, embraces her destiny, and learns that true leadership comes from understanding who you are and where you come from.

What Does Moama Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

The film celebrates courage, self-discovery, and the power of following your heart.

Pixar’s production portrays empathy through Moana’s interactions with Maui. Despite his initial reluctance and arrogance, Moana shows patience and understanding. She learns about his troubled past, and this insight helps her connect with him on a deeper level. Together, they navigate challenges and grow as individuals.

Moana also highlights the importance of empathy towards nature. Her mission is driven by a deep respect for the ocean and the life it sustains. This theme encourages viewers to appreciate and protect the natural world, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility.

Finally, the story highlights the value of community and leadership. Moana learns to listen to her people and considers their needs, demonstrating how empathy can guide effective, compassionate leadership. These elements combine to make Moana a powerful narrative that inspires children to embrace empathy in their own lives.

As a bonus, we learn that Dwayne Johnson can hold a note in a catchy song and briefly steal the show.

Big Hero 6

Big Hero 6
Photo Credit: Disney

Big Hero 6 follows a young robotics prodigy named Hiro Hamada, who is grieving the loss of his older brother, Tadashi. After a tragic accident, Hiro discovers that his brother’s invention, a healthcare robot named Baymax, has survived. Together, Hiro and Baymax uncover a mysterious plot involving stolen technology. To stop the villain behind the chaos, Hiro assembles a team of his friends—each with their own unique skills—and they form the superhero team “Big Hero 6.”

Through their adventure, Hiro learns about friendship, healing, and the importance of using his talents for the greater good, while finding a new sense of family and purpose.

What Does Big Hero 6 Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

Big Hero 6 shares various messages about coping with grief and developing friendships, providing some excellent teachable moments. Baymax exemplifies care and compassion, attentively addressing the needs and feelings of those around him.

Hiro’s journey also highlights teamwork and friendship as essential for overcoming challenges.

Audiences witness Hiro’s growth as he learns to navigate grief with the help of his friends and Baymax. This journey emphasizes healing and support from loved ones. The film’s warmth resonates with kids and adults, offering lessons in empathy and resilience.

Up

Up Animated Movie
Photo Credit: Pixar / Disney

Up is a heartwarming animated adventure that follows Carl Fredricksen, a 78-year-old widower who fulfills his lifelong dream of exploring South America by tying thousands of balloons to his house and taking flight. Along the way, he discovers an unexpected stowaway, Russell, an enthusiastic Wilderness Explorer.

Together, they journey to the mysterious Paradise Falls, where they encounter a rare bird named Kevin, a lovable talking dog named Dug, and Carl’s childhood idol turned antagonist, Charles Muntz.

Through thrilling escapades and heartfelt moments, Carl learns to let go of his past and embrace the possibilities of new friendships and adventures.

What Does Up Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

The empathy shared between the characters is highlighted through their interactions with Kevin, the exotic bird. By caring for Kevin, Carl and Russell demonstrate kindness and compassion, teaching young viewers the importance of considering the needs of others.

“Up” effectively uses its narrative to convey that empathy can lead to personal growth and deeper connections with others. Focusing on friendship and loyalty invites audiences to reflect on their relationships and encourages them to be empathetic in their daily lives.

The vibrant visuals and touching storyline make “Up” a compelling watch for children and adults alike. Admittedly, I probably love this particular Pixar film more than my children appreciate it.

The Incredibles

The Incredibles Animated Movie
Photo Credit: Disney

The Incredibles is my favorite animated children’s film of all time. It’s a thrilling animated superhero film that follows the Parr family, a family of superheroes who have been forced to conceal their powers. Bob Parr, formerly known as Mr. Incredible, longs to return to his glory days of fighting crime and covertly takes on a mysterious mission, only to discover a sinister plot orchestrated by Syndrome, a bitter former fan turned villain.

When Bob is captured, his wife Helen (Elastigirl) and their superpowered children—Violet, Dash, and baby Jack-Jack—must work together to rescue him and save the world.

Blending action, humor, and heart, the film explores themes of family, identity, and teamwork while delivering an unforgettable superhero adventure.

What Does The Incredibles Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

Through their journey, the Parr family highlights the importance of working together and recognizing the needs and feelings of others. These crucial elements make the story entertaining and a meaningful tool for children to explore empathy.

Alongside action-packed scenes, the film subtly showcases how the characters’ empathy grows over time. Mr. Incredible learns to value teamwork, while Elastigirl shows patience and understanding. Their transformation helps kids grasp the significance of emotional connections in overcoming adversity.

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The Incredibles successfully combines humor and heartwarming moments to convey its messages, making it a favorite among viewers. By blending relatable family dynamics with superhero elements, it offers valuable lessons in empathy to its young audience in a way that’s both fun and accessible.

Kubo and the Two Strings

Kubo and the Two Strings
Photo Credit: Universal Pictures

Kubo and the Two Strings is a visually stunning animated adventure that follows Kubo, a kind-hearted boy with the magical ability to bring origami to life through music. Living a quiet life in a seaside village, Kubo accidentally summons a vengeful spirit from his past, forcing him to flee and embark on a perilous quest.

Joined by Monkey and Beetle, two unlikely and loyal allies, Kubo must locate a magical suit of armor once worn by his legendary samurai father to defeat the spirit and uncover the truth about his family’s tragic history.

Combining breathtaking visuals, rich storytelling, and themes of courage, family, and forgiveness, the film delivers a powerful tale about the enduring strength of love and memory.

What Does Kubo and the Two Strings Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

Kubo’s deep bond with his sick mother highlights the importance of care and compassion within families. His interactions with his strange but protective allies, such as Monkey and Beetle, further underscore friendship and acceptance regardless of differences.

The movie’s exploration of loss and healing allows audiences to connect emotionally with Kubo’s journey. The storytelling emphasizes how empathy bridges gaps between characters and helps heal emotional wounds, making it not just an adventure movie but also an emotional experience.

While not as well-known as other children’s animated movies on this list, I highly recommend watching this movie, which has received well-earned critical praise.

Lilo & Stitch

Lilo & Stitch
Photo Credit: Disney

Lilo & Stitch blends humor, adventure, and heartwarming messages about family and acceptance. Set in sunny Hawaii, the story introduces Lilo, a spirited girl living with her sister Nani after their parents’ tragic death. Their lives turn upside down with the arrival of Stitch, an experiment from outer space gone astray.

Although Stitch is initially mischievous and troublesome, he soon forms a bond with Lilo.

What Does Lilo & Stitch Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

Lilo and Stich’s friendship exemplifies how empathy and kindness can transform even the most unlikely individuals. Together, they teach each other profound lessons about love and the Hawaiian principle of ‘ohana,’ which means family.

The film effectively helps children foster an understanding and appreciation for people who may look or act differently than them. Through Lilo and Stitch’s adventures, viewers see the importance of looking beyond appearances and giving others a chance. Lilo’s compassionate nature also gradually encourages Stitch to embrace his newfound family.

Lilo & Stitch captivates audiences with its touching narrative and playful characters. It emphasizes that families come in different forms, and genuine connections start with understanding and acceptance.

As a bonus, a live-action Lilo & Stitch adds to the fun and empathetic storytelling for 2025.

Toy Story 4

Toy Story 4
Photo Credit: Pixar / Disney

In Toy Story 4, Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the rest of the gang join Bonnie on a road trip, accompanied by a new toy named Forky. What begins as an exciting adventure takes an unexpected turn when Woody’s detour brings him face-to-face with his long-lost friend, Bo Peep. As they reminisce, they quickly realize that their views on life as a toy have grown vastly different.

Any Toy Story movie would fit into this list. Still, I chose Toy Story 4 because of its recency and because it weaves in various character narratives to teach different lessons to children.

What Does Toy Story 4 Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

A significant moment in the film is Woody’s friendship with Forky, a toy made from a spork. Despite Forky’s quirks and struggles with identity, Woody’s compassion and understanding showcase genuine empathy. He goes to great lengths to ensure Forky feels valued and finds his place.

Bo Peep, a returning character with newfound independence, plays a crucial role in teaching empathy, demonstrating the power of adaptability and resilience. Her interaction with Woody reveals how life experiences shape one’s ability to empathize with others’ situations.

As the toys navigate their new surroundings, they teach viewers the importance of helping each other in various times of need. Toy Story 4’s mix of humor and heartfelt moments showcases how empathy can lead to strong bonds and lasting friendships.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille Animated Movie
Photo Credit: Disney

Ratatouille is a delightful animated film that follows Remy, a rat with a passion for cooking, who dreams of becoming a great chef despite his species’ reputation. After finding himself in Paris, Remy forms an unlikely partnership with Linguini, a clumsy young man working as a garbage boy at a once-renowned restaurant.

Using his culinary talents, Remy secretly guides Linguini to create extraordinary dishes, reviving the restaurant’s reputation. However, their success attracts the attention of the harsh food critic Anton Ego and puts Remy’s secret at risk.

What Does Ratatouille Teach Children About Empathy And Other Life Lessons?

With humor, heart, and mouthwatering visuals, the film explores themes of creativity, ambition, and following one’s dreams, no matter the odds.

The film portrays understanding others’ perspectives, which is a significant aspect of the film. Remy empathizes with human emotions and desires, which creates a strong bond between him and Linguini. This relationship highlights the importance of teamwork and communication, even when there are cultural or species differences.

The film’s narrative encourages viewers to appreciate individual talents regardless of background. Even the youngest viewers are drawn into a world where characters grow by recognizing and valuing others’ feelings and talents.

This movie is packed full of heartwarming messages of acceptance and understanding. Ratatouille illustrates how empathy can break barriers and create meaningful connections by showcasing the unexpected friendship between a rat and a human.

If you’re looking for new movies to share with your children, here are all the 2025 children and family movies I’m watching with my kids.