Ask a parent how they want their child to grow up, and odds are “kind” makes the shortlist—right next to “eats something green once a week.”
Disney movies have long been a not-so-secret parenting tool for instilling those golden values, all while sneakily buying us an hour and a half to fold the laundry.
But which films actually teach kindness, not just catchy tunes and marketing tie-ins?
Here are ten Disney favourites that pack a kindness punch—and how you can bring those lessons home tonight, no matter how many times you’ve “accidentally” stepped on a Lego.
1. Cinderella and the Art of Being Gentle
Cinderella puts up with more than her fair share of nonsense: step-family drama, rodent houseguests, and a questionable curfew. Yet she consistently meets nastiness with grace.
She’s polite to those who mistreat her and even finds time to help others—hello, glass slipper for every girl in the kingdom.
Research shows that children who witness kindness, especially from characters they admire, are more likely to mimic it themselves.
Next time you queue up Cinderella, point out her patience with her step-sisters, then challenge your kids: “How would Cinderella handle that argument over the last biscuit?”
If nothing else, it’s a lovely reminder that kindness doesn’t have to mean letting others walk all over you—but a little gentleness can go a long way.
2. Beauty and the Beast Proves Kindness Changes Everything
Belle isn’t just a reader; she’s a role model for looking beyond appearances. Her friendship with the Beast starts rocky (understatement), but she treats him with empathy, even when he’s roaring for dinner.
Plenty of experts agree that empathy flourishes when kids see it in action. Pause the movie when Belle chooses to help the Beast, even after he scares her.
Chat about times your child has been nervous meeting someone new, but things turned out all right. And if your little one ever refers to a sibling as “beastly”…well, that’s a teaching moment, too.
3. Finding Nemo Swims in Compassion
Marlin and Dory’s journey across the ocean is basically the parenting Olympics—constant problem-solving, worried outbursts, and more patience than most of us could muster after a sleepless night.
What stands out, though, is how Dory’s optimism and Marlin’s eventual acceptance show the power of kindness, especially towards those who see the world differently.
Studies have shown that films like Finding Nemo can help children discuss emotions and differences.
Try swapping “Just keep swimming” for “Just keep helping”—and notice how Marlin’s trust in Dory grows as he learns to see her strengths.
4. Frozen Melts Hearts with Selflessness
Anna literally throws herself into blizzards for her sister. Elsa learns, with a few hiccups (snow monsters, anyone?), that love means putting others first without losing yourself along the way.
Frozen is a treasure trove for conversations about generosity and repair after arguments. If your living room has ever resembled an icy standoff (“She took my Olaf plush!”), use Anna and Elsa’s story to talk about saying sorry and making amends.
Some therapist parents even use Frozen to illustrate family conflict resolution—because if Anna can forgive being zapped with ice magic, surely we can forgive a sibling for hiding the remote.
5. Big Hero 6 Shows the Power of Helping
Baymax: the inflatable healthcare robot who stole our hearts—and snacks. Hiro starts off wanting vengeance, but Baymax’s gentle persistence nudges him towards compassion, even for those who hurt him.
This film is a brilliant springboard for discussing emotional regulation and the choice to be kind even when you’re angry.
Set aside a few minutes after the movie to ask, “Have you ever been upset and wanted revenge—but chose kindness instead?” (If they say yes, check your shoes. Sometimes the evidence is squishy.)
6. The Lion King Roars About Responsibility
Mufasa delivers the classic wisdom: “While others search for what they can take, a true king searches for what he can give.”
Kindness in The Lion King isn’t just about Simba offering someone a worm (thankfully)—it’s about using your strengths to help others, even when it’s hard.
Children pick up on this, especially when you point out moments where characters step up for each other. Next time your child helps a sibling or a classmate, echo Mufasa and remind them that real strength lies in what we give.
7. Moana Sails with Empathy
Moana’s journey isn’t just about adventuring across the ocean; it’s about listening—really listening—to her heart, her grandmother, and even the grumpy demigod Maui.
She shows kindness to creatures big and small, and in the end, it’s her compassion that soothes the angry Te Ka.
Moana is a fantastic film for practicing listening skills. Pause during Moana’s conversations with Maui or Te Fiti and ask, “What did you notice about the way Moana listens?”
You may be surprised how much your child catches (even if they can’t find their socks in the morning).
8. Toy Story Shares Lessons in Friendship
If Woody and Buzz can go from mortal enemies to best mates, surely there’s hope for siblings squabbling over the remote. Toy Story is a masterclass in sharing, forgiving, and cheering each other on—even if you’re made of plastic and stuffing.
Use their adventures to spark conversations: “How did Woody and Buzz treat each other when they felt jealous or left out?”
Encourage your children to try one small act of friendship after the credits roll, like making room for someone new at the lunch table (or rescuing a neglected soft toy).
9. Lilo and Stitch Finds Family in Unexpected Places
“‘Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.”
It’s impossible to hear that line and not want to pull everyone in for a cuddle—even the prickliest little monsters.
Lilo and Stitch is a gentle reminder that kindness often looks like including the odd one out, embracing differences, and sticking together through tantrums and triumphs.
Specialists in early childhood development note that inclusion is a key part of emotional intelligence, and this film gives kids a playful way to see it in action. Maybe even inspire your brood to look out for someone at school who could use a friend.
10. Zootopia Champions Standing Up for Others
Officer Judy Hopps, pint-sized bunny with a badge, proves that kindness isn’t just about being nice—it’s about standing up for what’s right, even when everyone else disagrees.
She befriends Nick, a fox with a chip on his shoulder, and together they challenge stereotypes across the city.
Zootopia serves as an excellent conversation starter for talking about fairness, diversity, and inclusion. Next time you encounter playground drama or a moment of exclusion, ask: “What would Judy do?”
And perhaps sneak in a reminder that “Anyone can be anything”—even if “anything” includes a parent who survived the school bake sale.
Bringing Disney’s Lessons Home
Films can spark kindness, but it’s the everyday moments that cement the habit. Catch your child sharing, helping, or forgiving, and call it out—bonus points if you connect it back to a Disney character they admire.
Even better? Join them. Kindness is contagious.
If you fancy a little extra credit, try one family kindness challenge inspired by your latest movie night: Help someone carry their groceries, write a thank-you note, rescue a wayward bug (with optional dramatic commentary).
Small gestures, big impact.
The next time you settle in for a Disney marathon—or just need to keep the peace while you wrangle dinner—remember: you’re not just raising film critics.
You’re raising the next generation of everyday heroes. That’s something even Cinderella would cheer for.
