Parents' Guide to

Frosty the Snowman

By Ellen Dendy, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 3+

Classic Christmas TV special is sing-along fun.

Movie NR 2000 30 minutes
Frosty the Snowman Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

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age 4+

Based on 14 parent reviews

BeckyJay
BeckyJay Parent
December 20, 2022
age 5+
Good movie about the magic of Christmas Eve snow, however there are some more inappropriate words for toddlers (stupid, dumb, heck). If you're okay with that sort of language then go for it! Such a great Christmas Classic!!
Jessica H.
Jessica H. Parent of 3-year-old
December 17, 2022
age 3+

A classic that still works for little ones today!

See all 14 parent reviews

What's the Story?

Narrated by Jimmy Durante, this classic Christmas cartoon forms a heartwarming story around the catchy 1950s song "Frosty the Snowman." The story begins when a magic hat lands on the head of a run-of-the-mill snowman and brings him to life. Just as in the song, Frosty (voiced by Jackie Vernon) is a jolly, happy soul. He enchants the local kids, who follow him around like the Pied Piper. But the magic hat belongs to wicked magician Professor Hinkle (Billy De Wolfe), who vows to get it back even if it means the end of Frosty. And Hinkle isn't the only danger -- temperatures begin to rise, and Frosty starts to melt. When young Karen (June Foray) decides to help Frosty get to the North Pole where he'll be safe, the two encounter some mildly scary situations on their adventure, but friendly woodland animals and Santa come to their aid. In the final scene, it appears that Frosty is gone forever, but never fear -- this winter tale has a happy ending.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (14 ):
Kids say (14 ):

A simple story line and mildly scary/sad scenes that quickly melt into happy situations make this half-hour tale appropriate for very young viewers. Parents will enjoy reliving their childhood and sharing this classic with their kids, and the beloved holiday song figures prominently throughout this short feature -- kids of all ages will have fun singing along (turn on the DVD's subtitle feature if you don't know all of the words).

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about Karen's bravery and loyalty in helping her new friend, Frosty, as well as Frosty's unselfish gesture when he takes Karen to the greenhouse to warm up. Families can also discuss the dangers of leaving home without getting permission from a parent. Could Karen have called someone or asked a parent to come along? Families can also unite in a fun sing-along of the familiar "Frosty the Snowman" tune, which is interspersed throughout the story.

Movie Details

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