One of our cherished family traditions is gathering together on weekends to enjoy a movie. There’s no better time for this than winter, when the temperatures dip and daylight hours are fleeting. This winter, let films spark your creativity and bring warmth to chilly days.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe
Home Theater: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe follows four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy—who discover a magical wardrobe that leads to the enchanting land of Narnia, where they must battle the White Witch. With the help of the noble lion Aslan, they embark on a heroic journey to free Narnia from eternal winter and restore peace to the realm.
Read the novel: The movie is based on a beloved children's novel by C.S. Lewis. At approximately 150 pages, it’s a perfect family read-aloud that can be completed in four to six hours—or older children can enjoy it on their own. If you love the novel, consider diving into the rest of the seven-book Narnia series. After reading, discuss the similarities and differences between the book and the movie adaptation.
Narnia Map Creation: On a blank piece of paper, dump a small handful of rice grains and trace around the shape it makes. Remove the rice and you have an interesting shape that can represent a map of Narnia or your own imaginary land. Challenge your topographers to include features from the movie, like snowy mountains, magical forests, Aslan’s stone table and the White Witch’s castle.
Lilo and Stitch
Home Theater: Longing for a tropical getaway from the winter chill? The Hawaiian setting of Lilo and Stitch is sure to please. Get to know a spirited young girl who adopts an alien pet as they navigate friendship and learn the importance of family.
Hawaiian Luau: Throw your own Hawaiian luau to set the theme for family movie night! Encourage everyone to wear grass skirts and leis and set the table with tropical foods like a fruit platter. Or pick up Hawaiian food from a local joint for a delicious meal.
Ohana Family Tree: In the movie, Lilo learns the importance of ohana, or family, you can do the same. Create a family tree that represents your ohana. Include photos and stories of family members and decorate using markers, scissors and glue.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
Home Theater: This heartwarming flick follows two dogs, Shadow and Chance, and a cat, Sassy, as they embark on an epic adventure to reunite with their owners after they are separated. Featuring the voice talents of Michael J. Fox and Sally Field, this movie is beloved for its themes of loyalty and perseverance.
Pillow Fort Adventure: Just as the animals in the movie experienced a safe haven while on their journey, you can use pillows, blankets and cushions to create a safe haven fort in your living room. Then enjoy snacks and watch the movie together inside the fort.
Baking Together: Peanut butter dog treats are simple to make, and you probably have most of the ingredients on hand. All you need is 1 c. peanut butter, 1 can pumpkin puree, 2 c. flour, 1/2 c. rolled oats, and 1 egg. Mix together, roll out dough and cut out with your favorite cookie cutters. Bake at 350° for 20–25 minutes, until they are golden and firm. Bake them and give to your pets at home, or bag them up and pass out to neighbors who own pets.
Wonder
Home Theater: Wonder tells the inspiring story of Auggie Pullman, a boy with a facial difference who navigates the challenges of starting middle school. Through his journey, the film explores themes of kindness, acceptance and celebrating individuality.
Family Talent Show: Host a family talent show, celebrating each person’s uniqueness as you support and applaud each performance. Have friends or neighbors over and invite them to join in.
Kindness Challenge: Create a family kindness challenge where each person performs a number of kind acts over a week. Brainstorm ways each family member can show kindness within their routine. Gather together at the end of the week to share your experiences. As an extension of the challenge, find a local organization that supports people with differences and volunteer as a family to give back to the community.