Netflix’s Ultimate Kids’ Movie Guide: 17 Must-Watch Films for May 2026

Netflix continues to prove that its children’s library is a treasure trove of imaginative storytelling, and this May 2026 lineup is no exception. From a star-studded animated adventure featuring Oscar winner Michael B. Jordan to nostalgic classics like Jumanji that defined a generation, the streamer offers something for every young viewer—and the adults watching alongside them. Our curated list highlights the best kids’ movies currently streaming, blending new releases with timeless favorites that are perfect for family movie night.

‘Swapped’ (2026)

Fresh off his Oscar win, Michael B. Jordan lends his voice to Ollie, a mischievous sea otter who swaps bodies with a flamboyant bird (Juno Temple) in this vibrant animated original. The duo must race against time to reverse the swap while confronting the fiery Firewolf. Director Sarah Smith crafts a whimsical world inspired by Japanese folklore, complete with talking trees and wood gods. While not quite Pixar-level, Swapped charms with its heartfelt message about friendship and self-acceptance—a solid pick for younger kids.

‘Jumanji’ (1995)

Before Dwayne Johnson ever rolled the dice, Robin Williams brought the perilous board game to life in this beloved family classic. When Alan Parrish (Williams) emerges from a 26-year entrapment inside the jungle-themed game, he must help siblings Judy (Kirsten Dunst) and Peter (Bradley Pierce) survive stampeding rhinos and mischievous monkeys. Director Joe Johnston’s practical effects remain stunning, and Williams’ performance balances manic energy with heartfelt sincerity. It’s a reminder of why the original Jumanji remains a benchmark for all-ages adventure.

‘Madagascar’ (2005)

DreamWorks’ hilarious tale of zoo animals stranded on a lemur-laden island still holds up nearly two decades later. Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, Jada Pinkett Smith, and David Schwimmer voice the iconic quartet of Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Gloria the hippo, and Melman the giraffe. The film’s slapstick comedy and earworm soundtrack (remember “I Like to Move It”?) make it a go-to for younger viewers, while adults will appreciate the sly jokes about captivity and conformity. Madagascar is pure, undemanding fun.

‘Labyrinth’ (1986)

Jim Henson’s dark fantasy masterpiece remains a rite of passage for kids who crave a little weirdness with their fairy tales. Jennifer Connelly stars as Sarah, who must navigate a treacherous maze to rescue her baby brother from the Goblin King Jareth—played with campy menace by David Bowie. The Creature Shop’s puppetry is astonishing, and the film’s themes of growing up and facing fears resonate decades later. It’s the kind of movie that builds character, just as its creator intended.

‘Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl’ (2025)

After a 20-year hiatus, the beloved claymation duo returns with a vengeance—literally. Feathers McGraw, the psychopathic penguin from The Wrong Trousers, hacks Wallace’s new invention, Norbot, to wreak havoc. Ben Whitehead seamlessly takes over as Wallace’s voice following Peter Sallis’s passing. The film’s sharp satire of smart-home technology, combined with classic Aardman slapstick, makes it a winner for both kids and parents. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of stop-motion animation.

‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ (2018)

Groundbreaking visuals and a pitch-perfect script elevate this animated Spider-Man adventure to instant-classic status. Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) teams up with alternate-universe Spideys, including Nicolas Cage’s film-noir version and John Mulaney’s cartoon pig. The film’s celebration of diversity and individuality—everyone can wear the mask—resonates deeply. With its comic-book-panel aesthetic and thrilling action, Into the Spider-Verse is a must-watch for superhero fans of all ages.

‘The Twits’ (2025)

Roald Dahl’s grotesque couple gets a deliciously weird Netflix adaptation. Johnny Vegas and Margo Martindale voice the foul Mr. and Mrs. Twit, who terrorize their town with meat floods and toxic farts. Directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller infuse the film with their signature irreverent humor, while the impressive cast—including Natalie Portman and Emilia Clarke—adds star power. It’s a wickedly fun ride that stays true to Dahl’s unapologetically offbeat spirit.

‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem’ (2023)

This fresh take on the Turtles franchise captures the anarchic energy of the original comics. The sketchbook-style animation is a feast for the eyes, and the voice cast—including Maya Rudolph and Jackie Chan—brings personality to every character. The story, in which the Turtles discover they share a kinship with villain Superfly (Ice Cube), adds surprising depth. Fart jokes abound, but so do genuine moments of brotherhood. It’s a shell of a good time.

‘Dog Man’ (2025)

Dav Pilkey’s beloved book series leaps to the screen with hyperactive glee. Pete Davidson voices the villainous talking cat Petey, while Lil Rel Howery and Isla Fisher round out the cast. The animation mimics comic-book panels, and the plot—a dog-human hybrid cop solves crimes—is delightfully absurd. Like Pilkey’s Captain Underpants, this film knows exactly how to appeal to kids, with jokes that land for grown-ups too.

‘Sing’ (2016)

Illumination’s jukebox musical follows Buster Moon (Matthew McConaughey), a koala who stages a singing competition to save his theater. The film’s uplifting message about chasing dreams is paired with a soundtrack that spans classic pop hits. Voiced by a stellar ensemble (Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson, Seth MacFarlane), the animal contestants each have their own relatable struggles. Sing is a feel-good experience that encourages kids to find their voice.

‘KPop Demon Hunters’ (2025)

Blending K-pop fandom with supernatural action, this original Netflix film follows girl group HUNTR/X as they secretly slay demons between concerts. The twist? The villainous Gwi-Ma forms a rival boy band to drain fans’ energy. Directors cast real K-pop idols to voice the members, ensuring authentic choreography and catchy original songs. It’s a wildly original concept that taps into modern youth culture while delivering colorful, high-energy entertainment.

‘Yes Day’ (2021)

Jennifer Garner and Édgar Ramírez star as overworked parents who say “yes” to every kid request for 24 hours. The resulting chaos—ice cream for breakfast, water balloon fights—is relatable and heartwarming. Jenna Ortega shines as the eldest daughter, and the film’s core message about balancing discipline with fun resonates with families. It’s a lighthearted comedy that parents will find surprisingly cathartic.

‘Orion and the Dark’ (2024)

Charlie Kaufman brings his signature surrealism to this adaptation of Emma Yarlett’s picture book. Jacob Tremblay voices Orion, an 11-year-old afraid of the dark, who is whisked away by Dark itself (Paul Walter Hauser). The film explores fear and imagination with dreamlike sequences and gentle humor. Angela Bassett’s Sweet Dreams and Nat Faxon’s Insomnia add depth. It’s a poetic coming-of-age story that will likely become a generational classic.

‘Nimona’ (2023)

Chloë Grace Moretz voices the shapeshifting Nimona, a rebellious girl who befriends a disgraced knight (Riz Ahmed) in a medieval-tech hybrid world. The film’s vibrant hand-drawn style and its themes of acceptance and identity make it a standout. Director Nick Bruno and Troy Quane adapt ND Stevenson’s graphic novel with wit and emotional heft. Nimona’s tragic backstory delivers a gut punch that elevates the film beyond typical animated fare.

‘The Sea Beast’ (2022)

From Moana co-director Chris Williams, this Netflix original reimagines sea monster lore with a How to Train Your Dragon sensibility. Orphan Maisie (Zaris-Angel Hator) stows away on a monster-hunting ship and forms a bond with a giant creature. Karl Urban voices the grizzled hunter Jacob, who learns the beasts aren’t mindless villains. The animation is lush, and the anti-colonialist message is timely. It’s a thrilling voyage for the whole family.

‘The Mitchells Vs. The Machines’ (2021)

This comic masterpiece redefined family dynamics in the age of tech. When an AI uprising turns every smart device into a killer robot, the dysfunctional Mitchell family becomes humanity’s last hope. Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph, and Abbi Jacobson voice the clan, while Olivia Colman is the sinister voice of PAL. The film’s rapid-fire jokes and heartfelt exploration of generational misunderstanding make it endlessly rewatchable. It’s a love letter to weird families everywhere.

‘Matilda the Musical’ (2022)

Tim Minchin’s stage musical comes to Netflix with Alisha Weir delivering a powerhouse performance as the telekinetic bookworm. Emma Thompson is gloriously over-the-top as Miss Trunchbull. The songs, including “When I Grow Up,” blend humor and poignancy. Director Matthew Warchus captures the magic of the original story while adding new layers—like Matilda’s relationship with her teacher, Miss Honey (Lashana Lynch). It’s an invigorating celebration of standing up against bullies and embracing one’s uniqueness.

As streaming continues to dominate family entertainment, Netflix’s commitment to delivering both original stories and beloved classics ensures that parents and children alike can find something to bond over. Whether it’s the wild ambition of KPop Demon Hunters or the timeless charm of Labyrinth, this month’s lineup proves that the best kids’ movies are the ones that spark conversations across generations. So grab the popcorn, queue up a film, and let the adventure begin.

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