The arrival of the year-end school holidays will undoubtedly have brought a smile to your child’s face, as having fun becomes the highlight of his or her days. This is an opportune time for you to bond with your child, and what better way to enjoy a fuss-free evening than by having a movie night?
Technology has made it so much easier for households to access newly-released films as well as old favourites and classics. Netflix, for instance, has made a range of movies available at your fingertips. The only problem you might have now is picking what to watch from a selection of thousands.
To help you get started, we sat down to shortlist educational movies that will tug at your family’s heartstrings as well as remind them of what makes our human lives complex, enchanting and worth celebrating. We selected the films based on mood, instructiveness, creativity and imagination — factors that we think can spark emotional intelligence in children.
We have also verified that all of the following films are available on Netflix Singapore, so there won’t be any need to switch platforms or channels should your family want to watch 2 or 3 of the movies at one go. Enjoy, and happy holidays from all of us at The Learning Lab!
With the government's advice for all Singaporeans to stay home as much as possible as a means of tackling the COVID-19 outbreak, many children are restless from being cooped up at home with little to no activities to fill their day over the school holidays.
We understand how this major upheaval can be frustrating for both parent and child alike. Due to the nature of the current situation, working parents are entrusted to carrying out their day-to-day operations from home, but being confined to working-from-home with their children can be stressful and hectic.
So here's a proposition for you to consider. Why not put on some educational and meaningful films for your child to watch that can give you an hour or two of uninterrupted time for you to handle your work responsibilities?
Technology has made it so much easier for households to access newly-released films as well as old favourites and classics. Netflix, for instance, has made a range of movies available at your fingertips. The only problem you might have now is picking what to watch from a selection of thousands.
To help you get started, we sat down to shortlist educational movies that will tug at your family’s heartstrings as well as remind them of what makes our human lives complex, enchanting and worth celebrating. We selected the films based on mood, instructiveness, creativity and imagination — factors that we think can spark emotional intelligence in children.
We have also verified that all of the following films are available on Netflix Singapore, so there won’t be any need to switch platforms or channels should your child wish to watch 2 or 3 of the movies at one go.
1. The Polar Express (2004)
Spread some much-needed cheer in your home by taking your child on a magical train ride. The Polar Express presents the adventures of a boy who discovers himself — and Santa Claus! — amidst the frozen landscapes of the North Pole.
Your child may not believe in Santa Claus, but that will not stop them from enjoying the film. Just like the main character of The Polar Express, they may end up remembering that Christmas is a time of magic and miracles. Let your child’s imagination run wild on this one, for if there’s anything worth chasing during this period of uncertainty, it’s dreams.
2. Wonder (2017)
A coming-of-age movie, Wonder tells the tale of a boy, Auggie, who has to contend not only with the common challenges of growing up but with the addition of trying to fit in with Treacher Collins syndrome – a rare medical facial deformity.
"Be kind, for everyone is fighting a hard battle. And if you really want to see what people are, all you have to do is look." Regardless of physical appearances, this movie is a wonderful way to teach your child kindness, compassion, empathy and resilience in the face of uncertainties and differing opinions.
3. How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
If you would like something a lot more light-hearted for your child, why not give this film a try? Expect slapstick humour, a wacky turn of events and some clever messages along the way.
A widely acclaimed animation film, How to Train Your Dragon will tug at your heart strings while at the same time entertain the little ones. Don't be mistaken though, this film is suitable for adults as well so have plenty of fun watching this with your child.
4. The Blind Side (2009)
Based on a true story, The Blind Side features themes such as compassion, courage and determination, all conveyed with a healthy dose of humour. It tells of the life of an abandoned teenager who is adopted by a wealthy family and subsequently finds a better life as a football athlete.
We recommend this one not only for its feel-good impact, but also as a reminder for your child that anything is possible when they set your mind to accomplish something.
5. A Dog’s Way Home (2019)
What can happen between being lost and being found? A lot, if you happen to ask the canine protagonist of this film, Bella. A Dog’s Way Home takes viewers on an adventure that explores identity, social conventions, compassion, loyalty, wildlife and all the surprises in between.
Your child will learn about friendship, courage, openness to all possibilities and embracing others despite perceived differences. Get the tissues ready, for there’s nothing that warms the heart and brings tears to the eyes like a feel-good dog movie.
6. Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey (2011)
Meet Kevin Clash, the man behind the Sesame Street character Elmo, one of the most beloved characters among children across the globe.
This documentary shines a light on the life and extraordinary career of a puppeteer. It also shows success from a very different angle: how someone’s passion brings joy to others.
7. Epic (2013)
Enter a whimsical forest and witness a make-believe battle with environmental consequences. This animated movie has enjoyable twists and vibrant characters, with plenty of visual details for your child to appreciate, especially if he or she is into the arts or other creative fields.
What’s more, Epic also has strong ecological messages that are ripe and timely. Your child might become inspired to support a new cause after watching this film.
8. The Boy Who Harnessed
the Wind (2019)
Children are naturally intelligent, as William Kamkwamba – the protagonist of this film – emphatically proves. He fixes radios in his spare time when he’s not at school or helping his family out. When crops die and famine strikes, William finds a way to build a windmill-powered water pump using the electrical engineering skills he learned at school.
After watching William in action, your child might just be inspired to invent something Netflix would make a film about.
Edutainment at Home
The best movies entertain and educate at the same time, which is why we try to incorporate as much of that elusive movie magic into our lessons as possible.
We screen carefully curated videos in our English classes as part of the “Media Studies” segment, where students are encouraged to think critically and debate on hot button issues.
If you are looking for something a little more hands-on to engage your child with, we have just the thing as well. We have unveiled an exclusive collection of activity sheets and guides to help tide you and your child over during this period and instil a sense of joy for learning at home.
Take your pick from the myriad of enjoyable and educational activities and guides such as:
Create a daily schedule for the month to serve more as a guideline than a fixed timetable so that you can have the flexibility to balance working and supervising your child.
Here's how you and your child can both comfortably adapt to the circuit breaker measures that cause the workplace and the school both converge into the home environment.
Have some fresh air and take a brief walk around your neighbourhood. Be sure to check the National Parks’ portal for information on visitorship and take the necessary precautions.
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If you have any questions about our range of programmes or class schedules, you may contact us at 6733 8711 or drop us an email at enquiry@thelearninglab.com.sg.
