Netflix is finally leaning into the stuff kids actually want to watch without the "made for kids" cringe factor, and September 2026 is the month that proves it. Between a high-concept franchise expansion in the Stranger Things universe and a surprisingly polished Barbie remake, the "Netflix Original" badge is starting to mean something again.
TL;DR: September's heavy hitters are the animated Stranger Things spinoff, Not a Stranger, and the new Barbie remake, both of which are set to drop later this month. If you need something to watch tonight, the Hilda specials and The Mitchells vs. The Machines remain the gold standard for family movies that don't rot your brain. Check out our best movies for kids list for the full age-by-age breakdown.
The biggest news this month is Not a Stranger, the animated spinoff of Stranger Things. Based on the trailer that dropped recently, the show looks like it’s aiming for a "Saturday Morning Cartoon" vibe but with the 80s synth-horror edge of the original series.
It’s set to release later this month, and the buzz suggests it’ll be a gateway drug for kids who aren't quite ready for the jump-scares and gore of the live-action show. The animation style is reminiscent of 80s classics—think Real Ghostbusters—but with modern production values. It’s expected to expand on the lore of Hawkins without requiring a PhD in the previous four seasons. If your kid is already obsessed with the main show, this is an easy win; if they’ve been curious but too scared to dive in, this looks like the perfect entry point.
The new Barbie remake is expected to drop in the back half of September, and it looks like it’s trying to bridge the gap between the classic animated movies and the 2023 live-action blockbuster. From the early teasers, this isn't the low-budget CGI Barbie of the 2010s. It looks visually lush and, more importantly, like it has a sense of humor.
The remake seems to be leaning into the "Barbie can be anything" theme with a more modern, slightly snarkier tone. It’s expected to land well with the elementary school crowd while being tolerable enough for parents to have on in the background. If your kid has aged out of the simpler Barbie stories but still loves the brand, this is the one to watch for.
If you’ve already seen everything with a famous logo on it, Netflix has a few deeper cuts that actually justify the screen time. These are the movies that don't feel like they were written by an algorithm.
This Taika Waititi gem is a masterclass in deadpan humor and heart. It follows a defiant city kid and his grumpy foster uncle who get lost in the New Zealand bush. It’s funny, weird, and visually stunning. It’s the kind of movie that starts conversations about what "family" actually means without being sappy about it.
Written by Charlie Kaufman (yes, that Charlie Kaufman), this is an animated movie for kids who are anxious, overthinkers, or just afraid of the dark. It’s more intellectual than your average DreamWorks flick but stays grounded in a story about a boy befriending his biggest fear. It’s a great pick for kids who liked Inside Out.
Richard Linklater’s rotoscoped nostalgia trip is perfect for a rainy Sunday. It’s a fictional story about a kid being recruited by NASA for a secret mission, but it’s really just a beautiful, detailed look at what it was like to be a kid in 1969. It’s quiet, charming, and a great way to sneak some history into movie night.
When the big September releases like Not a Stranger drop, the "can I watch it?" question is going to hit your group chat. Here is the move:
- Do it with them. Especially for the Stranger Things spinoff. Animation can sometimes mask intensity, so watch the first episode together. It’s the best way to see if the "creepy" factor is hitting the right notes for your kid or if it’s going to lead to a 2am visit to your bedside.
- Talk about the marketing. The new Barbie remake is a massive brand play. Ask them why they think Barbie is "cool" again. It’s a low-stakes way to build some media literacy about how franchises reinvent themselves.
- Pivot to the games. If they love the world-building in these movies, point them toward creative outlets. If they love the vibe of Not a Stranger, they might like building their own "upside down" worlds in Minecraft. If they love the style of the new Barbie, check out cozy games that focus on design and customization.
Q: What age is the new Stranger Things animated show appropriate for?
The animated spinoff Not a Stranger is expected to be rated TV-Y7 or TV-PG, making it more accessible than the TV-14 live-action series. It still has "creepy" elements, but the stylized animation usually softens the blow for younger viewers around 8-10 years old.
Q: Is the new Barbie remake okay for preschoolers?
While most Barbie content is preschool-safe, this new remake is aiming for a slightly older "bridge" audience (ages 6-11). It will likely be fine for younger kids to watch, but some of the humor and plot points might fly over their heads.
Q: What are the best family movies on Netflix right now?
Beyond the new September releases, the best family movies on Netflix are currently The Mitchells vs. The Machines, Hilda and the Mountain King, and Leo. For a complete list, check our best movies for kids list.
September 2026 is a month of "event" releases. Between the nostalgia of Barbie and the sci-fi creepiness of Not a Stranger, there’s enough high-quality content to keep the "there's nothing to watch" complaints at bay. Just remember that the best way to navigate these big franchise drops is to watch alongside them—you might actually find yourself enjoying the 80s synth-wave as much as they do.
- Check out our digital guide for elementary school to see how these movies fit into a balanced media diet.
- Thinking about a first console for the holidays? Read our intro to the Nintendo Switch.
- Get more movie recommendations for your family
