Movies to Enjoy with Kids While Boosting Your French Skills

Watching movies is a fun way to help your kids learn French while enjoying great storytelling. By choosing French films specifically made for children, you can create a learning experience that is both entertaining and educational. These movies come with engaging visuals and relatable characters, making it easier for young viewers to pick up new words and phrases.

You can start with animated classics like “Ernest et Célestine” or heartwarming stories such as “Une vie de chat.” These films not only capture your child’s attention but also give them the chance to hear French spoken naturally. Even familiar titles like Disney movies are available in French, helping kids connect what they already know with the new language.

From lighthearted comedies to meaningful adventures, there are many French films that cater to various ages and interests. Watching together allows you to discuss scenes, repeat phrases, and deepen your child’s understanding of the language in a relaxed setting. The right movie can spark their interest in learning French online or in Paris and help them build confidence in using their new skills.

learn french with animated movies

1. French child-friendly animated adventures

Choosing French movies for kids can be enjoyable and educational. You want to find films that are suitable for their age, feature relatable themes, and offer engaging stories. Here are some key points to guide your selection.

1.1 Ballerina

ballerina movie

Meet Félicie, a young orphan from Brittany whose heart beats for dance in Ballerina. Alongside her best friend Victor, who aspires to be a brilliant inventor, they hatch an adventurous scheme to break free from the orphanage and make their way to Paris, the dazzling city with the Eiffel Tower under construction! Félicie must summon all her strength, challenge herself, and grow from her experiences to fulfill her greatest ambition: to shine as a prima ballerina at the Paris Opera.

1.2 Un monstre à Paris

un monstre à Paris

In the flooded Paris of 1910, a monster is causing chaos. Relentlessly pursued by the formidable Prefect Maynott, it remains elusive… What if the perfect hiding spot is beneath the spotlight of “L’Oiseau Rare,” a cabaret where Lucille, the strong-willed star of Montmartre, performs?

1.3 Une vie de chat

Une vie de chat

Dino is a cat who splits his time between two homes. During the day, he lives with Zoé, the daughter of a police commissioner. At night, he climbs the rooftops of Paris alongside Nico, a highly skilled burglar. Jeanne, the police commissioner, is on high alert. She has to catch the thief behind a series of jewelry heists while also keeping an eye on the Colossus of Nairobi, a giant statue sought after by Costa, the criminal responsible for her police officer husband’s death.

1.4 Le petit prince

le petit prince

This is the tale of a story. It follows a brave and curious little girl navigating a world filled with adults. It also features an eccentric and playful aviator who has never quite grown up. Together, they embark on an extraordinary adventure brought together by the Little Prince.

1.5 Le sommet des dieux

le sommet des dieux

In the heart of Kathmandu, Japanese reporter Fukamachi thinks he recognizes Habu Jôji, the climber believed to have vanished for years. He seems to be in possession of a camera that could significantly impact the narrative of mountaineering.

1.6 Ma vie de courgette

ma vie de courgette

Of course, Courgette isn’t just any vegetable; he’s a brave little boy. He feels all alone in the world after losing his mother. However, he’s about to discover the friendships he will form in his new life at the children’s home.

1.7 Ernest et Celestine

ernest et celestine

In the conventional bear community, it’s not acceptable to be friends with a mouse. However, Ernest, a quirky bear who is both a clown and a musician, decides to welcome little Célestine, an orphan who has escaped the underground realm of rodents, into his home.

1.8 Kirikou et la sorcière

kirikou

In a small African village, the tiny Kirikou is born into a world cursed by the witch Karaba, who, along with her fearsome fetishes, has cast a dreadful spell: the water source has dried up, the villagers are being extorted, and men are mysteriously disappearing. As soon as he enters the world, Kirikou is determined to free his village from Karaba’s evil grip and uncover the secret behind her wickedness.

2. Educational Activities Post-Movie Watching

After watching a movie in French, you can engage your kids with activities that enhance their language skills and vocabulary. These activities encourage discussion, creativity, and interaction, making the most of your movie experience.

2.1 Discussing the Film and its Themes

Begin by having a discussion about the film you just watched. Ask open-ended questions to spark dialogue and critical thinking. For example:

  • What did you like most about the movie?
  • Which French songs did you enjoy the most ?
  • Which character did you find the most interesting, and why ?

Encourage kids to express their thoughts in French. This helps them practice vocabulary related to feelings, emotions, and opinions. You might also touch on themes of the movie, such as friendship, bravery, or teamwork.

Include words frequently used in discussions, like courage (courage), loyalty (loyauté), and adventure (aventure). This will help enhance their vocabulary and deepen comprehension of the film’s message.

2.2 Interactive Language Games

Make learning French fun by using games that relate to the movie. Consider creating a vocabulary bingo game with words from the film.

Here’s how to set it up:

  1. Write down key vocabulary words on cards.
  2. Give each child a bingo card with these words.
  3. As you call out words in French, learners cover them on their cards.

Another option is charades, where kids act out scenes or characters from the movie. This encourages them to recall vocabulary and phrases in context, reinforcing their understanding of the language.

2.3 Creative Writing and Storytelling

After discussing and playing games, you can prompt kids to engage creatively. Ask them to write an alternate ending to the movie. This will encourage them to use new vocabulary while thinking critically about the plot.

Another option is to have them create their own comic strip based on the film’s characters. This fosters imagination and reinforces their understanding of storytelling in French. Finally, you might also enjoy reading together the book that inspired the movie.

By weaving in vocabulary from the movie, you ensure they are using the language actively. Provide prompts, such as specific character dialogues or settings, to guide their writing process.

In summary, these films not only provide entertainment but also enrich your child’s understanding of French language and culture.Contact mde should you wish to  become more familiar with French culture and enrich your vocabulary.

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