The holiday season is a magical time for kids, filled with lights, treats, and festive cheer. But with all the excitement, it can be easy to overstimulate young children, especially with high-energy holiday movies and shows. Luckily, there are plenty of gentler options that still bring holiday magic without the chaos. If you’re looking for less stimulating holiday shows and movies, here are some favorites that offer calming visuals, simple stories, and heartwarming messages.

If You Give a Mouse a Christmas Cookie

Based on the beloved book series, this animated holiday special is as sweet as the title suggests. Mouse and his friends prepare for Christmas, and the story unfolds with a focus on friendship, teamwork, and holiday cheer. The pacing is gentle, and the animation is colorful but not overwhelming, making it a perfect choice for younger viewers.

Trash Truck Christmas

This heartwarming Netflix special follows Trash Truck and his friends as they help Santa deliver presents after an unexpected mishap. The muted color palette and slow-moving animation style keep the energy low-key while still offering a message of kindness and problem-solving. It’s an excellent pick for kids who love vehicles and simple, relatable adventures.

Snowy Day

This heartwarming Netflix special follows Trash Truck and his friends as they help Santa deliver presents after an unexpected mishap. The muted color palette and slow-moving animation style keep the energy low-key while still offering a message of kindness and problem-solving. It’s an excellent pick for kids who love vehicles and simple, relatable adventures.

The Snowman

This iconic animated film has been a favorite for decades, and for good reason. With no dialogue, The Snowman relies on its beautiful hand-drawn animation and moving score to tell the story of a boy and his snowman who comes to life. The lack of loud sounds or fast-paced action makes it ideal for winding down on a cold evening.

Why Less Stimulating Options Are Great for the Holidays

While high-energy holiday movies like Home Alone or The Grinch can be fun, they might not be the best fit for every moment, especially for toddlers or kids who need a little calm amidst the holiday bustle. Less stimulating shows and movies:

Promote relaxation, especially before bedtime.
Avoid sensory overload during an already exciting season.
Create a cozy, peaceful atmosphere for the whole family to enjoy.

How Common Sense Media Can Help

Not sure if a show or movie is the right fit? Common Sense Media is a fantastic resource for parents. The site provides age-appropriate ratings and detailed reviews of movies, TV shows, and even apps. You can check if a film has loud noises, fast-paced scenes, or other elements that might not suit your child’s needs.

Creating a Holiday Tradition

Pairing a calming holiday movie with cozy pajamas, a warm blanket, and a cup of cocoa can become a cherished family tradition. These quieter moments can balance out the excitement of parties, presents, and big events, creating a holiday season that’s as joyful as it is peaceful.

What are your favorite calming holiday shows or movies? Share them in the comments—we’d love to hear your recommendations!

Less Stimulating Holiday Movies and Shows for Kids: A Calmer Way to Celebrate the Season