There always seem to be plenty of great kids' movies, and 2010 is no exception to this rule so far. Summer is a great time to enjoy some great movies together as a family, either at the theater or on DVD. When choosing a movie, always pay attention to the movie rating, as these ratings can be a good guide to follow when choosing movies that are appropriate for children. However, always remember that nobody knows your child better than you. Even a movie with a "G" rating can be disturbing to some children, if they are particularly sensitive to the topic. Here are some great kids' movies which have already been released this year that both you and your child might enjoy.

Alice in Wonderland

Based on the classic Alice in Wonderland tale, this Tim Burton movie is visually spectacular. It is colorful, exciting and full of adventure. If your child has read the story of Alice in Wonderland, this movie will build on the experience, since it's based on Alice's return to Wonderland after originally visiting as a child. It's a movie that the whole family will enjoy.

Shrek Forever After

This fourth and supposedly final film in the highly popular Shrek series involves an alternate storyline, going back to before Shrek and Fiona first met. Rumpelstiltskin is featured in this movie, which is an interesting adventure of "what might have been." The movie features the characters from the previous three films, but in an entirely different context. However, in the end, everyone lives "happily ever after." Renting and viewing the previous three films before seeing the fourth can make the movie even more fun.

Toy Story 3

Another sequel movie, Toy Story 3 features everyone's favorite collection of toys, including Woody and Buzz. In this movie, Andy has grown up and is getting ready to leave for college. Andy plans to take Woody with him, and intends to store the other toys in the attic. However, they mistakenly get put out on the curb, and end up at a daycare center. The story continues with Woody trying to rescue his toy friends, some exciting adventures at the daycare center, a happy reunion, and finally a new life for the toy gang at the end of the movie. This movie will be enjoyed by the entire family.

How to Train Your Dragon

This movie explores what can happen when a young Viking boy decides to befriend a dragon instead of sticking with the Viking tradition of hunting and killing them. It features beautiful realistic 3D animation, plenty of special effects, and a heart-felt storyline that you won't soon forget. The story is witty, smart, and rich in the kind of lessons that we would all do well to learn. However, it's also a lot of fun to watch, and you'll enjoy it just as much as your kids will. There's also plenty of action, which is made even more exciting and realistic due to the 3D effects. It's also filled with plenty of humor and compassion, plus plenty of lessons on friendship and the wisdom of taking the time to understand that which we may at first fear.

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