5 back to school movies to watch with your kids

Schools will soon be back in session, and while I love the kids getting an education, making new friends, or even guessing what the "mystery meat" is in the cafeteria, I want them to enjoy the rest of their summer. You only have so many years as a kid; every moment should be treasured.

Movies were one way we said our goodbyes to summer and opened the idea of going back to school because they provided a great escape from the heat and solid reasons to bond. Whether it's going to the local theater or in the privacy of home, each kid found something they enjoyed. I preferred Y2K high school romcoms and light-hearted Disney films. But everyone has their taste.

To help guide you and your family through the movie selection process, here are a few recommendations.

The 5 back to school movies to watch with your kids

Grease (1978)

Grease is the word! You can't beat a classic 1970s musical with a talented cast. Starring John Travolta and the late Olivia Newton-john as Rydell High's "It" couple Danny and Sandy, Grease explored the societal culture of the fifties, while giving the movie an updated flair.

This is a great choice for the tweens and teens who enjoy history and fun.

Where to stream: Paramount+

The Sandlot (1993)

The Sandlot is the link between remaining childhood innocence and the path to adulthood. It depicted the friendships of young boys growing up in 1962 who love baseball, while experiencing the changes that come with growing up. Even when the friends go their separate ways in later years, the memories remain and the bond between Scotty (Tom Guiry) and Benny (Mike Vitar) is just as solid as it was when they were twelve.

Where to stream: Disney+

Bluey: School Friends (2022)

In my honest opinion, you can't get enough of Bluey, and Disney+ has a special compilation block of the lovable Blue Heeler pup and her friends having fun in all of their classroom activities. Episodes include "Calypso," "Early Baby," "Army," and lots more to get your Bluey intake. What's perfect about "School Friends" is that both kids and grownups can enjoy it.

Where to stream: Disney+

Drive Me Crazy (1999)

The Y2K Era was the best period for high school rom-coms and rom-coms in general. Drive Me Crazy is a story centered on Nicole (Melissa Joan Hart) and Chase (Adrian Grenier) scheming to make their exes jealous, only to develop mutual feelings. The film was a sleeper hit and was the pinnacle of pop culture at my high school when it came out twenty-five years ago. Plus, the soundtrack features Britney Spears, Jars of Clay, and many other great artists of the time. And you can't help but obsess over the fashions in Drive Me Crazy, as they're making a comeback this fall, with your teen wearing something similar to their first day back at high school.

Where to stream: Paramount+

Monsters University (2013)

Did you ever wondered how Mike (Billy Crystal) and Sulley (John Goodman) got to be the top monsters at Monsters Inc.? Well, they met at Monsters University, where Sulley was the popular student and Mike was only interested in his studies. They weren't friends at first, due to differentiating goals and learning techniques. After helping one another out, Mike and Sulley became best friends, although a cheating scandal got both of them expelled from MU. However, since their scaring talents were not learned ones, Mike and Sulley secured employment at Monsters Inc, ranking from entry-level to the top as business partners

Where to stream: Disney+

Once you completed this list, we have a few more picks and as always, having discussions about the movies is a great tool for developmental growth.

Other back to school considerations:

• Inside Out and Inside Out 2

• Legally Blonde and Legally Blonde 2

• The High School Musical franchise

• Hairspray (2004)

• Mean Girls

Be on the watch for more family features an parent guides right here on The Parent Watch!