Why Home Alone Is the Ultimate Holiday Movie

Kevin taught my children the importance of planning. My little ones have used Kevin’s Battle Plan as a guide to map out their own proposals for defeating Harry and Marv. From toy cars on the floor to nails protruding from the stairs, the drawing renditions of their battle plan are nothing short of genius. In a Three Stooges kind of humor, watching the bad guys fall victim to Kevin’s booby traps is not only entertaining but downright hysterical. While my sons don’t have bad guys to take down, they keep the spirit alive: “This is my house—I have to defend it,” they announce.

Stay creative

Kevin promotes creativity. In 1992, the Talkboy handheld voice recorder was on every kiddo’s holiday wish list. We all wanted to order takeout, book a room at the Trump Plaza and embark on a vacation without parents à la Kevin. In his uncle’s New York City home currently under renovation, he turns everyday construction materials into useful props of protection. A tool chest and bricks become slingshots and paint cans, once again, become a deterrent. Around every corner, Kevin’s innovation saves the day.

Life-long lessons

As if Home Alone didn’t make enough of an impact on our youth, it also teaches them the power of their words. “I wish they would all just disappear,” Kevin declares in a moment of frustration. The next morning, he discovers his words have come true. As he processes his family’s disappearance—from initially appreciating his independence to then discovering—he genuinely misses them. It’s important for children to appreciate their loved ones!

In Home Alone 2, Kevin sets a great example of why we shouldn’t judge someone based on their appearance—a vital lesson for everyone. While the pigeon lady initially frightens him, he quickly realizes that appearances can be deceiving. If all these pigeons like her, she must not be so scary, he concludes. It’s the perfect example of acceptance and how two people can be the positivity they need at the moment.