I've always loved a good documentary — and for good reason. Documentaries can help enhance your interest in any topic, whether it's animals or true crime. Plus, a lot of them are appropriate to watch with kids — especially documentaries dealing with science and nature.
But one of the best parts about a good documentary is that it's a reminder that things are happening in the world. Documentaries are about true stories and events, and they can give you a great look at what's happening across the globe. There are always incredibly inspiring stories to discover.
Some stories can even lift your spirits. If you want to jump onboard the documentary train, here are a few excellent titles to get started.
'Won't You Be My Neighbor?' (2018)
Fred Rogers was one of the most influential names in children's programming — and Won't You Be My Neighbor? flawlessly tells his story. The documentary delves into the fact that Fred was never afraid to talk about big topics and knew the best way to discuss them with young minds. Learning stories about who he was behind the scenes is good for any fan — or simply anyone who wants to learn how to open their heart and become a better person. You can find it streaming on HBO.
'Notes on Blindness' (2016)
It's hard to imagine what life would be like after losing a major sense. After losing his sight in the early 1980s, John Hull began making an audio diary to best describe what the process was like. In just three years, John ended up recording around 16 hours of material, which has since been edited and turned into a film. Not many people know what it's like to experience blindness, which is why John's firsthand account is so fascinating. You can catch this movie on Netflix.
'Mad Hot Ballroom' (2005)
Mad Hot Ballroom is proof that kids can do anything — even if it's ballroom dancing. Focusing on a program available at the New York City Department of Education, the documentary follows a group of 11-year-olds who are learning how to foxtrot, swing, and merengue.
It's a great watch for any kid who also wants to learn how to dance. You can buy it through Amazon Prime.
'Spellbound' (2002)
Spellbound is a personal favorite, likely because it showcases a bunch of kids who excel in language. Spelling bees have been around for quite some time, but this movie helped make them more of a spectator sport.
It's a great watch with kids, especially since you and your child will each find someone in this documentary to root for. It might even encourage them to break out the dictionary and start studying. But it's also a good movie to help remind your child that even if they don't get first place in a sport or activity, it doesn't mean they're not talented.
'The Last Lions' (2011)
Animal documentaries are usually incredible if you enjoy witnessing how animals relate to one other. The Last Lions showcases a mother lion named Ma di Tau who lost her partner. The film documents her strategy and survival with her cubs after new leadership takes over. This is how lions operate, and getting a safe view of their hierarchy is quite special. Plus, it might encourage young children to learn more about how to save and protect the lion population.
'Street Gang: How We Got to Sesame Street' (2020)
Everyone knows what Sesame Street is — even if they've never watched it before. The award-winning show that has aired on PBS for years — and is now also streaming on HBO, which is where you can find this documentary — has plenty of fans, young and old. But many aren't aware of the history behind it. This documentary showcases what it was like behind the scenes and illustrates why it's such an important show for children.
'A Beautiful Planet' (2016)
Sometimes, the best way to appreciate our world is to watch a documentary about it. Narrated by Jennifer Lawrence, this documentary showcases plenty of good footage taken from the International Space Station. It's a great way to remind ourselves that we have one planet and should be doing our best to save it.
This documentary, which is great for kids, is currently streaming on Hulu.
'Fly Like a Girl' (2020)
Looking for a little bit of girl power? Then Fly Like a Girl is the documentary worth checking out. The movie follows young women who dream about working for NASA. Right now, NASA is predominantly run by men — which is why it's important for movies like this to exist. Available on Hulu, this is a great watch for any young woman who likes STEM and dreams of changing the world.
'Becoming' (2020)
If you couldn't get enough of Michelle Obama's autobiography, you'll love her documentary that shares the same title. Michelle's rise toward greatness is nothing short of inspiring, and it's a good watch for all young children who are activists at heart. Michelle is quite the inspiration for anyone, and she's part of American history. Watch her journey on Netflix.
'Daughters of Destiny' (2017)
On the topic of inspirational documentaries is Daughters of Destiny, which is also available on Netflix. The film focuses on the young women of India who attend the Shanti Bhavan school, constructed to help educate impoverished children. The women featured are of the untouchable caste, making their individual journey toward success even harder. This documentary was shot over seven years, giving a true depiction of the women featured. Not only will this documentary remind you to think about what you have in this world, it'll reinforce the message that women are incredible.
'Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things' (2015)
Curious about minimalism? It's an interesting topic to discuss with your children, especially in regard to caring for our planet. This movie questions how life would be if you had less. Looking into materialism and compulsory consumption, this documentary may answer questions you've been afraid to ask. You might even start questioning why you own some of the things you do.
