This story is part of a HuffPost Parents project called “I See Me,” a series for parents and children about the power of representation. We know how important it is for children to see people who are like them on the biggest stages, including politics, sports, entertainment and beyond. Throughout the month of February we will explore the importance of representation in teaching children about difference, acceptance, privilege and advocacy for others.
As parents, we know how important it is for children to see themselves not only in public figures, but also in the stories they consume.
That’s why parents at HuffPost turned to Common Sense Media for their movie recommendations featuring a range of diversity, from gender to race to physical differences and more. While we were watching movies for kids 10 and under, their site hosts a wealth of information for all ages.
Below, find a list of movies recommended by the folks at Common Sense Media, the go-to for media recommendations for kids.
Type of representation: BIPOC
What common sense says: “The story centers on a black boy living in a racially and culturally diverse urban background.
Where to watch it: Amazon
Type of representation: Gender, diverse blended family
What common sense says: “Dana is an exemplary role model who challenges gender stereotypes, and the story focuses on various blended families.
Where to watch it: Amazon
Type of representation: BIPOC, kind
What common sense says: “There is a strong diversity among the cast of Odd Squad, including a girl as the Big Boss. “
Where to watch it: PBS, Amazon
Type of representation: Kind
What common sense says: “Ferdinand is happiest pursuing traditionally female pursuits (gardening, dancing, spending time with his family), but he is also proudly strong and powerful.
Where to watch it: Rent on the main streaming platforms
Type of representation: Genre, BIPOC
What common sense says: “This film provides a wonderful role model for Moana, who is determined to be a strong and successful leader for her people, and offers a thoughtful portrayal of Polynesian culture.
Where to watch it: Rent on the main streaming platforms
Type of representation: BIPOC / culture, gender
What common sense says: “This charming film takes great care in how it portrays Chinese culture and features a courageous and determined heroine.
Where to watch it: Netflix
Type of representation: BIPOC / culture
What common sense says: “The vibrant Disney / Pixar film explores the traditions of the Day of the Dead.
Where to watch it: Rent on major streaming platforms
Red shoes and the seven dwarfs
Type of representation: Gender, body positivity
What common sense says: “Promotes body image and self-acceptance while confronting stereotypes and sending the message that true love sees beyond appearances.
Where to watch it: Rent on major streaming platforms
Type of representation: BIPOC, nationality
What common sense says: “A diverse group of star students exemplify determination, dedication and ambition.
Where to watch it: Rent on major streaming platforms
Type of representation: BIPOC
What common sense says: “This documentary offers a very positive look at families of Indian origin.
Where to watch it: Netflix
Type of representation: Animal diversity
What common sense says: “Using animals to replace different types of people, the film promotes tolerance, empathy and multiculturalism – and the value of each when it comes to making a difference in society.
Where to watch it: Rent on the main streaming platforms
Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse
Type of representation: BIPOC
What common sense says: “Children are sure to notice the diversity of this excellent film and the strong female characters.
Where to watch it: Rent on major streaming platforms
Type of representation: BIPOC, kind
What common sense says: “The main characters have all studied, worked hard, and persevered in areas in which few women – let alone women of color – excelled at the time, and they don’t let the obvious and overt racism they face them. Stop. “
Where to watch it: Rent on major streaming platforms
David Copperfield’s personal story
Type of representation: BIPOC
What common sense says: “The director’s “color blind” approach to casting means this take on classic Dickensian history is far more diverse than any that came before.
Where to watch it: Rent on major streaming platforms
Type of representation: Physical difference
What common sense says: “Centered around a boy with facial differences, the film contains clear positive messages about choosing kindness and everyone’s appreciation for who they are (rather than how they look).
Where to watch it: Rent on major streaming platforms
