I'm a Parenting Editor, and These Are My Most Anticipated Kids' Movies of 2026

March 28, 2026 - 17:57

The cinematic calendar for 2026 is shaping up to be an extraordinary year for family entertainment, promising a delightful mix of beloved sequels, fresh adaptations, and exciting original stories. Animation giants are leading the charge with highly anticipated returns to cherished worlds. Buzz Lightyear, Woody, and the gang are slated for another adventure in a new "Toy Story" installment, while the plumber brothers from the Mushroom Kingdom are jumping back into action with a follow-up to the phenomenally successful "Super Mario Bros." movie.

Beyond these surefire hits, literary adaptations are bringing new stories to the big screen. The magical wardrobe reopens for a fresh cinematic journey to C.S. Lewis's "The Chronicles of Narnia," aiming to captivate a new generation. Meanwhile, the bestselling picture book "The Pout-Pout Fish" will make its animated splash, translating its message about turning frowns upside down into a colorful underwater tale.

The lineup is further bolstered by original projects from major studios, ensuring that 2026 will offer something for every young viewer and the young at heart. This diverse slate underscores a vibrant period for family films, focusing on shared theatrical experiences that promise laughter, adventure, and heart.