At home, and increasingly back at the multiplex, how we miss you -- 2021 has brought us unforgettable children's, teen and family movies, from magical adventures to exciting musicals. They make us happy, make us think, and give us a lot to talk about. At the same time, they provide meaningful information, show us the power of representation and make us smile and sometimes cry. Our choices below have all earned the common sense seal, which means they offer a superior media experience for families with children of all ages.

Paw Patrol: Movie, ages 4 and up

Nickelodeon's cute, selfless rescue puppy team is irresistible to preschoolers, who will delight in the film's sweet, simple adventures. (G, Paramount Plus)

My Little Pony: New generation, 5 +

This animated adventure is filled with amazing magical Settings and candy-colored ponies, as well as positive messages about accepting others and rejecting stereotypes and intolerance. (PG, Netflix)

Encanto, ages 6 and up

Disney's delightful animated musicals are a tribute to Colombian culture, magical realism and the strength of multigenerational families. (PG, in theaters and Disney Plus)

Luca, 6 + years old

This sun-kissed story is touching, lively, tender, sweet and funny, and clearly conveys the importance of evaluating people, not their backgrounds or traditions. (PG, Disney Plus)

In vivo, over 6 years old

This upbeat and poignant animated musical about the transformative power of love boasts Lin-Manuel Miranda's signature genre fusion songs anda lovable lead character. (PG, Netflix)

Mitchells vs. The Machines, ages 8 and up

Fun and entertaining, this is an ideal choice for a family movie night that should spark productive and honest conversations about the role of technology in family life. (PG, Netflix)

Raya and the Last Dragon, ages 8 +

Charming, empowering and epic at the same time, this Southeast Asian-inspired adventure introduces the next great Disney warrior princess. (PG, Disney Plus)

Wishing Dragon, ages 8 and up

Based on a Chinese fable, this delightful animated comedy has charming characters, a charming setting, and a universal message about valuing what really matters in life. (PG, Netflix)

Ghostbusters: The Afterlife, ages 10 and up

Music, lighting, camera angles, humor, return references, cameos, script -- everything comes together beautifully in this entertaining reboot. (PG-13, in theaters)

Mixtape, ages 10 and up

This moving play captures the energy, innocence and angst of youth while exploring themes of love, loss, friendship and life. (TV -PG, Netflix)