10 Animated Movies That Teach Kids The Power Of Empathy

Movies That Teach Kids The Magic Of Empathy

These movies gently show kids how to understand feelings, care for others, and see the world with kinder eyes. Through colorful adventures, lovable characters, and heartfelt moments, each story helps children recognize emotions, celebrate differences, and build compassion in everyday life.

Inside Out

In Inside Out, we meet Riley, a young girl adjusting to a big move. Her emotions; Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust, show that every feeling has a role to play. Kids watching this will feel it’s okay to feel a range of emotions and that empathy begins with recognizing and respecting those feelings in themselves and others.

Zootopia

Set in a city where animals of all kinds live together, Zootopia tells the story of Judy Hopps, a rabbit who dreams of being a police officer, and Nick Wilde, a sly fox who becomes her partner. The movie is all about teaching kids about bias, inclusion, and acceptance. The movie shows that kindness and empathy can break down walls and bring even the most unlikely friends together.

The Iron Giant

Even though the Giant looks scary at first, Hogarth sees his gentle heart. Their friendship shows that being kind and understanding can change everything. The movie teaches kids not to judge others by how they look and that everyone can choose to be good.

Finding Dory

In Finding Dory, everyone’s favorite forgetful fish sets out to find her long-lost family. Along the way, she meets new friends and faces tough challenges. Dory’s story teaches kids about patience, acceptance, and never giving up, and her forgetfulness becomes a lesson in understanding and kindness, showing how important it is to help others even when things get tricky.

Frozen

Frozen melted hearts everywhere with the story of sisters Elsa and Anna. The movie beautifully shows how empathy can heal relationships and help people open up. Through their journey, kids learn about courage, forgiveness, and self-acceptance.

The Lion King

The Lion King follows Simba’s journey from a carefree cub to a wise and caring king. Along the way, he learns about loss, friendship, and courage. The movie teaches kids that understanding others’ feelings helps us grow stronger and kinder. Through his experiences, Simba realizes that everyone plays a part in the “circle of life.”

Soul

Pixar’s Soul tells the story of Joe, a music teacher who loves jazz but discovers that life is about more than chasing dreams. When he meets 22, a soul who doesn’t want to live, they both learn how empathy can change everything. The movie encourages kids to find joy in these little everyday moments and appreciate others’ feelings.

Moana

Moana is the story of a brave island girl who sets sail to save her home. On her journey, she meets the demigod Maui and comes across certain challenges. Despite the challenges, Moana shows compassion that turns them into true friends. It's the perfect example for children to learn that empathy can help even the most stubborn hearts change.

Up

Up is a touching story about Carl, an elderly widower, and Russell, a cheerful young scout, who go on an unexpected adventure together. As they care for a rare bird and face wild challenges, they build a sweet friendship. The movie teaches kids how understanding and kindness can bridge generations.

Coco

CoCo talks about Miguel, a boy who dreams of being a musician even though his family has banned music for generations. When he accidentally crosses into the Land of the Dead, Miguel learns about his ancestors’ lives, their sacrifices, and their love. The movie shows kids that understanding someone else’s story can heal old wounds.