Scary Movies for Kids
Looking for a spooky, sneaky, and thrilling experience the whole family can enjoy? Whether it’s Halloween night or just a rainy afternoon craving some thrills, the right mix of fright and fun can turn any movie night into a mini-adventure. But when the kids are begging for something spooky, finding the perfect balance between entertaining and age-appropriate can be tricky.
While most horror flicks are made for adults, there’s a fantastic world of scary movies for kids that deliver all the eerie excitement without the nightmares. From animated ghouls to ghostly mysteries, we’ve rounded up the best scary movies for kids—films that bring just enough goosebumps and giggles to keep little viewers on the edge of their seats (but still sleeping soundly afterward).
So whether you're planning a Halloween movie marathon or simply searching for scary family movies to shake up your next Friday night, this list of 32 scary movies for kids has something for every young thrill-seeker. These age-appropriate horror movies prove that spooky can be safe—and seriously fun.
1. Hocus Pocus
In the heart of Salem, three mischievous witches, the Sanderson sisters, are brought back to life on Halloween night after being dead for 300 years. Intent on reclaiming their youth and powers, they wreak havoc in the modern world. A group of brave kids, alongside a wise-cracking, centuries-old cat, must outsmart these hilarious yet sinister witches before the town falls under their spell. Combining humor, adventure, and a touch of nostalgia, this beloved family film enchants audiences of all ages.
2. The Nightmare Before Christmas
In The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, grows weary of his role in crafting scares and yearns for something new. One day, he stumbles upon Christmas Town, a dazzling place filled with light and joy, which sparks a bold idea: to take over Christmas and make it his own. Despite his enthusiasm, Jack’s unconventional approach leads to unexpected complications, putting both holidays at risk. With its striking stop-motion visuals, memorable songs, and a heartfelt message about finding one’s purpose, the film is a unique blend of dark charm and emotional depth, celebrating the beauty of embracing change while staying true to oneself.
3. Casper
In Casper (1995), a kind-hearted young ghost named Casper befriends Kat, a teenage girl who moves into his haunted mansion with her father, a paranormal therapist hired to communicate with spirits. While Casper dreams of friendship and a chance to live again, the mansion is also home to his mischievous and unruly ghost uncles, who create chaos at every turn. As Kat and Casper grow closer, they uncover secrets about the mansion’s past and the possibility of a second chance at life. Blending humor, heart, and a touch of spookiness, the film is a charming tale of friendship, loss, and the power of love to transcend even the boundaries between life and death. It's a mix of whimsy and emotion, making it a timeless family favorite.
4. Coraline
In Coraline (2009), a spirited and inquisitive girl named Coraline stumbles upon a secret passage in her new house, revealing a fantastical alternate version of her world. At first, this strange realm appears enchanting, filled with doting parents, dazzling sights, and endless wonders, but Coraline quickly learns that its perfection masks a chilling and dangerous reality. To protect herself and her true family, she must navigate this eerie dimension, relying on her wit and bravery to outsmart its unsettling inhabitants. Directed by Henry Selick and inspired by Neil Gaiman’s novel, the film is a visually mesmerizing stop-motion adventure that weaves together spine-tingling fantasy and touching themes of courage, love, and the value of home. With its striking animation and captivating narrative, it stands as a timeless tale for both young and mature audiences.
5. Monster House
Monster House (2006) is a thrilling animated film that follows three adventurous kids discovering that a seemingly ordinary house in their neighborhood is a living, breathing monster. When no adults believe their wild story, they take it upon themselves to uncover the dark secrets hidden within its haunted walls. With Halloween approaching, they must figure out how to defeat the house before it devours trick-or-treaters. This film masterfully combines humor, heart, and spooky elements to create an unforgettable tale that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
6. Hotel Transylvania
Hotel Transylvania (2012) is a delightful animated comedy that revolves around Count Dracula, who runs a lavish resort exclusively for monsters. To protect his beloved daughter, Mavis, from the dangers of the human world, he creates a haven where ghouls and creatures can relax away from humans. However, Dracula's carefully controlled world is thrown into chaos when an ordinary human boy accidentally stumbles into the hotel. As the boy and Mavis form an unexpected friendship, Dracula must confront his fears and prejudices, leading to hilarious and heartwarming moments. The film brilliantly blends humor, adventure, and family dynamics, creating an enchanting experience for all ages.
7. ParaNorman
ParaNorman (2012) tells the engaging story of Norman, a young boy who possesses the extraordinary ability to see and converse with ghosts. In a town cursed for centuries, Norman realizes that his supernatural powers are crucial to preventing a looming zombie invasion. Joining forces with an unexpected group of companions, he navigates obstacles that challenge his bravery and resolve. The movie masterfully blends humor, horror, and heartfelt moments, conveying a compelling message about acceptance and courage when faced with fear.
8. The Addams Family (1991)
The Addams Family (1991) is a darkly humorous film that follows the eccentric, macabre, and lovable Addams family as they navigate an attempt by outsiders to swindle their fortune. The plot thickens when an imposter posing as long-lost Uncle Fester infiltrates their household, but his true identity raises questions and stirs chaos. As the family unravels the deceit, their unique and quirky ways lead to unexpected twists and turns. The movie brilliantly combines gothic elements with comedic flair, making it an unforgettable and entertaining experience for all.
9. Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island
Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island (1998) is an exciting adventure where the Mystery Inc. gang reunites to solve a spine-chilling case. They travel to a mysterious island in Louisiana, seeking to uncover the truth behind reported ghostly hauntings. However, they soon realize that the spooky stories are real, as they encounter genuine zombies and dark forces at play. The film masterfully combines humor, suspense, and supernatural thrills, capturing the essence of Scooby-Doo's beloved mystery-solving escapades with a fresh and eerie twist.
10. The Haunted Mansion
The Haunted Mansion (2003) is a spooky comedy that follows real estate agent Jim Evers and his family as they visit a grand, eerie mansion he's been asked to sell. They soon discover the mansion is haunted by 999 restless spirits, and they're caught in a web of mystery involving a tragic love story and a sinister plot. As Jim and his family try to escape the clutches of the supernatural, they must solve the riddle of the haunted house and break the curse. The film expertly blends humor and chills, offering a fun and thrilling adventure for the whole family.
11. Halloweentown
Halloweentown (1998) is a charming fantasy film that follows Marnie Piper, a young girl who discovers she's a witch on her 13th birthday. When she and her siblings secretly follow their grandmother to the magical world of Halloweentown, they find a place where supernatural creatures lead everyday lives. However, a sinister force threatens the town's peace, and it's up to Marnie and her family to harness their newfound powers to save it. The movie artfully blends adventure, magic, and family bonds, creating an enchanting experience that captivates audiences of all ages.
12. Frankenweenie
Frankenweenie (2012) is a touching stop-motion animation directed by Tim Burton, revolving around a young boy named Victor Frankenstein who uses his scientific skills to resurrect his cherished dog, Sparky. As Sparky's revival wreaks havoc in their small town, Victor must deal with the unforeseen results of his actions. The movie seamlessly combines elements of traditional monster films with a heartfelt story of companionship and grief. Its endearing characters and striking visual style offer an engaging and moving experience that resonates with viewers of all generations.
13. Beetlejuice
In Tim Burton's fantastically odd Beetlejuice (1988), a recently deceased couple finds themselves haunting their beloved home, which obnoxious new occupants invade. Desperate to reclaim their house, they enlist the help of a mischievous, chaos-loving ghost named Beetlejuice, whose unconventional methods spiral wildly out of control. With its quirky characters, whimsical visuals, and darkly humorous undertones, the film masterfully blends supernatural elements with a heartwarming story about family and belonging. Be prepared for a wild ride full of laughter, spooks, and a pinch of the bizarre.
14. Ghostbusters
In the supernatural comedy Ghostbusters (1984), three eccentric parapsychologists in New York City lose their university funding and decide to start their own ghost-catching business. Equipped with high-tech proton packs, they battle mischievous spirits and ghouls wreaking havoc in the city. As their reputation grows, they face their biggest challenge yet: a powerful ancient deity threatening to unleash chaos. This fun and energetic film combines witty humor, impressive special effects, and unforgettable characters to deliver an exhilarating adventure filled with laughs and thrills.
15. The Witches
In the magical adventure The Witches (1990), young Luke stumbles upon a gathering of witches, led by the fearsome Grand High Witch, who loathe children. Transformed into a mouse by their wicked sorcery, Luke must cleverly outwit the witches and derail their scheme to eliminate all kids. He sets out on a courageous quest with his caring grandmother to reveal the witches' true nature and save the day. This captivating film offers a delightful mix of imaginative scenes, humor, and suspense, creating a memorable story about bravery and friendship.
16. James and the Giant Peach
James and the Giant Peach (1996) follows young James, a boy trapped in a bleak existence with his unkind aunts, who stumbles upon a miraculous giant peach that changes his life forever. Inside the peach, he meets a lively group of oversized insect companions, and together they set off on a fantastical voyage across the sea toward the bustling city of New York. Along their journey, they encounter thrilling obstacles, form deep friendships, and learn the importance of bravery and belonging. Directed by Henry Selick, the film combines live-action scenes with mesmerizing stop-motion animation, bringing Roald Dahl’s beloved story to life with vibrant creativity. A blend of adventure, humor, and heartfelt moments, this enchanting tale inspires viewers to embrace their imagination and believe in the extraordinary.
17. Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit
In the whimsical and imaginative claymation film Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit, Wallace and his faithful canine companion Gromit operate a humane pest control service in their picturesque village. With the eagerly awaited Giant Vegetable Competition on the horizon, the community's cherished crops come under threat from a mysterious, monstrous rabbit. Combining humor and heartfelt moments, Wallace and Gromit set off on a quest filled with ingenious inventions and surprising turns, determined to uncover the truth behind the havoc-wreaking creature and save the day. The movie is an enchanting mix of comedy and suspense, highlighting the duo's endearing partnership and clever problem-solving skills.
18. The Boxtrolls
Set in the quirky, subterranean world of Cheesebridge, The Boxtrolls (2014) follows the story of a young orphan named Eggs who is raised by mischievous, yet endearing, creatures known as Boxtrolls. These inventive little beings live underground and are wrongly feared by the town's inhabitants. As a nefarious exterminator named Archibald Snatcher plots to eradicate the Boxtrolls, Eggs must embark on a daring adventure to save his adoptive family and reveal the true nature of these misunderstood creatures. The film is a heartwarming tale of acceptance and bravery, filled with unique characters and imaginative visuals.
19. The House with a Clock in Its Walls
In The House with a Clock in Its Walls (2018), a young orphan named Lewis is sent to live with his eccentric uncle Jonathan in a mysterious mansion. To Lewis's amazement, he discovers that both his uncle and their quirky neighbor, Mrs. Zimmerman, are practitioners of magic. As Lewis delves deeper into this magical world, he uncovers a sinister clock hidden within the house's walls, which holds the power to bring about the apocalypse. Together, Lewis, Jonathan, and Mrs. Zimmerman must use their wits and magical abilities to thwart the dark forces at play and protect their newfound family. The film blends fantasy, adventure, and a touch of horror, creating an engaging and thrilling experience for audiences.
20. Coco
In the colorful and heartfelt movie Coco (2017), young Miguel aspires to be a musician, despite his family's generational ban on music. Driven to showcase his musical talent, Miguel unexpectedly finds himself in the enchanting Land of the Dead, where he meets his ancestors and starts to uncover the reasons behind his family's prohibition of music. Accompanied by a charming trickster named Héctor, Miguel embarks on a quest to discover the truth about his family history and fulfill his dream. The film seamlessly weaves together themes of family, tradition, and the transformative power of music, creating a visually stunning and emotionally moving narrative.
21. A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting
In the adventurous film A Babysitter's Guide to Monster Hunting (2020), a high school freshman named Kelly Ferguson is recruited by a secret society of babysitters who protect children from mythical creatures. When one of her charges is kidnapped by the Boogeyman and his minions, Kelly must join forces with her fellow babysitters to rescue the child and thwart the sinister plans of the supernatural villains. Along the way, she discovers her courage and the true power of teamwork. The movie is a thrilling blend of fantasy and action, offering an exciting ride with plenty of humor and heart.
22. Hubie Halloween
Hubie Halloween (2020) is a comedy featuring the well-meaning yet quirky Hubie Dubois, who is devoted to ensuring the safety of his hometown, Salem, during the Halloween festivities. Despite being ridiculed by the townspeople, Hubie takes his role as the community's unofficial protector seriously. When strange occurrences and a series of disappearances threaten the Halloween celebrations, Hubie must step up and prove that he has what it takes to save the day. The film blends humor, mystery, and a touch of heart, making for an entertaining and lighthearted Halloween adventure.
23. Little Shop of Horrors
Little Shop of Horrors (1986) is a quirky, darkly humorous musical that follows Seymour, a shy and unassuming florist who stumbles upon a strange, flesh-eating plant he dubs Audrey II. The plant’s rapid growth brings Seymour unexpected fame and success, but its gruesome need for human blood soon spirals into a series of chaotic and deadly consequences. As Seymour struggles to balance his ambitions and his feelings for his coworker Audrey, he finds himself trapped in a web of moral compromises and escalating danger. Directed by Frank Oz, the film combines infectious musical numbers, eccentric characters, and a playful mix of comedy and horror. Its vibrant style, sharp satire, and unforgettable charm have cemented it as a beloved cult classic that continues to entertain and surprise audiences.
24. Return to Oz
Return to Oz (1985) is a darker, more adventurous sequel to The Wizard of Oz, following Dorothy as she returns to the magical land she once knew, only to find it in ruins. Determined to restore Oz, Dorothy teams up with new friends, including a talking chicken and a clockwork robot, to confront the sinister forces that have taken over. Along the way, she faces eerie challenges and uncovers the strength within herself to fight for what she believes in. Directed by Walter Murch, the film blends fantastical elements with a haunting tone, offering a fresh and imaginative take on L. Frank Baum’s classic stories. With its unique visuals and heartfelt storytelling, Return to Oz is a captivating journey that explores courage, resilience, and the enduring power of hope.
25. Spirited Away
Spirited Away (2001) is an enchanting animated adventure that follows Chihiro, a young girl who accidentally enters a fantastical spirit world after her parents fall under a mysterious curse. To rescue them and return home, she must work in a bustling bathhouse for spirits, where she encounters strange creatures, daunting challenges, and unexpected friendships. Through her journey, Chihiro discovers her courage and resourcefulness, growing stronger as she navigates the whimsical yet perilous realm. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the film is a visual marvel, brimming with imaginative landscapes, intricate characters, and profound themes of identity and perseverance. A heartfelt story of resilience and self-discovery, Spirited Away remains a beloved masterpiece that captivates viewers with its beauty and emotional depth.
26. Ernest Scared Stupid
Ernest Scared Stupid (1991) is a hilarious Halloween-themed comedy starring Ernest P. Worrell, a well-meaning but bumbling handyman who accidentally unleashes an ancient, mischievous troll upon his small town. As the troll wreaks havoc by turning children into wooden dolls, Ernest teams up with a group of kids to stop the creature and save the day. The film is a lighthearted and family-friendly adventure, filled with slapstick humor, spooky antics, and Ernest’s trademark goofy charm. While it delivers plenty of laughs, it also sprinkles in just enough thrills to keep the Halloween spirit alive. A nostalgic treat for fans of Ernest’s quirky antics, this movie is a fun and silly romp perfect for the spooky season.
27. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966) is a beloved animated Halloween special that follows the Peanuts gang as they celebrate the spooky season in their charming ways. While most of the children enjoy trick-or-treating, Linus waits faithfully in a pumpkin patch, convinced the mythical "Great Pumpkin" will appear to reward true believers. Meanwhile, Charlie Brown faces his usual misfortunes, from receiving rocks instead of candy to disastrous pumpkin carving attempts. Filled with gentle humor and heartfelt moments, the special captures childhood wonder, disappointment, and unwavering hope. This timeless classic remains a nostalgic favorite, celebrating Halloween through its endearing characters and simple yet profound storytelling.
28. The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad
This classic Disney animated feature The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1949) presents two unforgettable stories brimming with personality and adventure. The film first introduces the impulsive J. Thaddeus Toad, whose reckless passion for speed lands him in outrageous predicaments that threaten his reputation and freedom. Later, we meet the lanky Ichabod Crane, whose encounter with Sleepy Hollow's infamous specter builds to a pulse-pounding nocturnal chase. Masterfully blending whimsical comedy with eerie suspense, the animation captures the spirit of both literary classics through vivid visuals and memorable characters. These contrasting tales - one of madcap antics, the other of supernatural dread - combine to create an enduring showcase of Disney's storytelling versatility.
29. Labyrinth
Labyrinth (1986) whisks viewers away on a mesmerizing journey through a realm of fantasy and peril. When teenage Sarah's careless wish summons the enigmatic Goblin King to steal her infant brother, she must brave his elaborate maze of illusions and tricks to bring the child home. Along her quest, she meets peculiar inhabitants - some helpful, some hazardous - while confronting challenges that demand both cleverness and maturity. More than just a fairy tale, it's a poignant exploration of growing up, where solving the labyrinth's riddles becomes a metaphor for navigating life's complex transitions. The film's unique mix of music, magic, and meaningful storytelling continues to captivate audiences decades later.
30. Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019) brings Alvin Schwartz’s chilling children’s books to life in a horror film set in 1968, where a group of teens accidentally unleash supernatural terror from a cursed book of stories. As eerie tales begin writing themselves—and coming true—each friend faces personalized nightmares drawn from the book’s sinister pages. The teens must unravel the dark history behind the stories before they become permanent additions to the collection. Directed by André Øvredal and produced by Guillermo del Toro, the film blends nostalgic atmosphere with genuinely unsettling creature designs and suspenseful twists. A love letter to classic campfire scares, it transforms childhood frights into a gripping, coming-of-age nightmare.
31. The Spiderwick Chronicles
The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008) follows the Grace children—Jared, Simon, and Mallory—as they move into their family's eerie ancestral home and uncover a mysterious field guide to magical creatures. When Jared opens the book, he unknowingly awakens a hidden world of fairies, goblins, and other fantastical beings, putting his family in grave danger. As dark forces close in, the siblings must work together to protect the guide from falling into the wrong hands. Filled with breathtaking visuals and thrilling adventure, the film brings Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black's beloved books to life. A perfect blend of fantasy and family drama, it captures the wonder and peril of discovering a secret world just beyond our own.
32. Goosebumps
Goosebumps (2015) brings R.L. Stine's beloved book series to life in a thrilling adventure where fictional monsters escape their pages and wreak havoc on a small town. When teenager Zach Cooper accidentally unleashes the creatures by opening one of Stine's original manuscripts, he teams up with the author and his daughter to recapture them before chaos spreads. Packed with humor, scares, and nostalgic references, the film cleverly blends multiple Goosebumps stories into one action-packed narrative. Jack Black's energetic performance as the eccentric Stine adds charm to this family-friendly horror-comedy. A fun and fast-paced ride, the movie celebrates imagination while delivering just the right amount of spooky excitement.
