12 Movies That Inspire Childhood Adventure For Kids 3-14

Our kids are tethered to technology and it's having a terrible effect on their wellbeing. Here are twelve films to inspire some sumer time adventure.

As a science fiction writer and immersive media director, I’ve become a futurist and constantly think about my son’s childhood over the next decade. And I am very nervous he won’t have tech-free adventures with his friends.

This is not just because the internet has created addicting short-form ‘content,’ but because video games are forever story worlds, and everything you want to know can be found by asking Siri, Alexa, or Google. They don’t even need to type or tap a screen. They can call out to the void, and some inanimate object will respond. Soon, our kids will expect everyday objects around the house to converse with them.

So, how do we inspire our kids to put down their phones, tablets, and consoles to explore, imagine, and be free?

Parents need to be brave and trust their kids, which is easier said than done. We don’t want our kids untethered for many reasons. It isn’t safe like it was when we were kids; there aren’t places for them to go, public phones for them to call us if they need help, and the weather is extreme and unpredictable. The idea of my son out in the world without a digital device sharing his location is terrifying, but what will that do to him? How does he trust himself if I don’t trust him? And is that why this newer generation has difficulty being independent? I also wonder if we don’t let our kids feel what it’s like to get in a bit of trouble, will it make them more prone to lots of trouble?

That’s why I’ve curated a list of movies to watch with your kids at different stages in their lives that will inspire parents to find ways to let their kids free from the invisible leashes we’ve all come to rely on and encourage kids to go out and play. Even perhaps invest in their community.

I’ve linked to the Common Sense Media profiles so you can quickly look up age recommendations, issues, and where to watch. I also personally lean into movies that might have problematic stereotypes, as it’s the perfect venue for a conversation about our values. Common Sense Media does a great job spelling out issues in movies so you can prepare or skip movies if there are topics you don’t want to discuss. Their age recommendations skew a little old, so use your judgment.

1. Stand By Me

   

   Based on a Stephen King story, this Rob Reiner film is an adventure that evolves into a defining event in their lives. (Age 12+)

2. E.T.

   

   A troubled child summons the courage to help a friendly alien escape from Earth and return to his home planet. (Common Sense says 8+, I am thinking 4, maybe even as soon as he turns 3, for my son)

3. The Sandlot

   

   In the summer of 1962, a new kid in town is taken under the wing of a young baseball prodigy and his rowdy team, resulting in many adventures.