We love the idea of themed movie night, where each week you decide on a theme and choose the movie, snacks and costume accordingly. It gives an ordinary movie night a real sense of novelty and occasion – two things kids can’t get enough of!
Plus, it’s a great fall back for when we’re trying to find an activity to keep the kids occupied. Prep surrounding the movie, like posters, décor and costume-making, can put paid to an entire rainy Sunday. Sneaky, us?
So to start you off, why not consider an ‘under the sea’ movie night? Here are five classic titles the kids will adore AND the movie snacks to match:
The movies:
The Little Mermaid
From hero Ariel, to wise-cracking Sebastian, to ultimate baddie Ursula, Disney’s The Little Mermaid never fails to entertain. Kids of all ages will find themselves enthralled by Ariel’s journey to find Eric, the human she loves, while staying true to herself as a princess of the sea.
Flipper
Great for kids who are that bit older, Flipper is the story of a teen’s bond with a dolphin, and the amazing adventure that ensues.
Finding Nemo
A bit of a modern classic, Finding Nemo is the wacky, hilarious adventure of the search for a little Marlin fish called Nemo. Although we don’t know why we’re explaining the movie to you – show us a parent who hasn’t seen this film and we’ll be stunned!
Free Willy
We watched this movie when we were younger, and more recently as mums, and we don’t think it’s lost any of its appeal. We love the story of the lonely teen who develops a special bond with clever, lovable Orca Willy, and the adventure to save him from a greedy park owner. Again, this is a great choice for bigger kids.
Shark Tale
Another animated under the sea lark in the vein of Finding Nemo, Shark Tale is a laugh-a-minute oceanic romp that we would best describe as Goodfellas, but with sharks, and for kids. Sound like fun? Trust us, it is.
The snacks:
‘Fish’ sandwiches
Pop to your local kitchen store and pick up some inexpensive fish or boat shaped cookie cutters. Simply make your desired sandwich (tuna?!) and cut out some under the sea shapes to serve.
Under the sea crackers
Carr’s Oddities are a range of tasty mini crackers in under the sea shapes, perfect to complement your kids' nautical movie night. Baked, not fried, they’re tasty and filling, keeping tums full throughout the film.
‘Crab’ apples
This ideas is so simple, but looks brilliant. Simply cut an apple in half, using one half for the body, and slice the other half into several equal pieces for the claws.
Love our ideas? Why not SHARE with other mums who'll love them too!
