The reason these five movies are important films to watch is that it will help to prepare you for the child-like mindset, which is a very necessary thing, since you've probably become accustomed to seeing the world through adult eyes.

You'll need to re-discover the simplicity and the wonder of seeing things as children do, so that you're better able to understand everything from that point of view. These five movies will help put you back in touch with your inner child, so you can better relate to your own children.

Mary Poppins (1964)

While the special effects may be somewhat dated from this classic film, the sheer charm and delight of the children more than makes up for it.

The magic of Mary Poppins is also a sight to behold, as is the singing and dancing of Dick Van Dyke, and the skillful blend of live-action and animation was ground-breaking for its time. The child-like wonder young people have for the world around them, makes this one of the best films to watch before you have kids.

Hook (1991)

The film's title of course, is derived from evil Captain Hook, portrayed expertly by Dustin Hoffman, who strives throughout the movie to overcome his nemesis, Peter Pan. In this version, Peter Pan returns to Neverland to save his favorite children from Captain Hook, and that's when all the magic begins to occur.

This is a beautiful Steven Spielberg film which reminds us all that there's a little bit of magic in all of us.

The Love Bug (1968)

This movie is included on the list because it has several darker moments before goodness and happiness triumph at the end, and that's a pretty good lesson for all parents.
The plot is about a has-been race car driver who finds that his car is alive and wants to win races - a lot more than most of the other race cars, rebahin which are newer, faster, and better made. Buddy Hackett gives a brilliant performance as Herbie's mechanic, and keeps both the car and the film on track.

The film's title refers to the nickname given to Volkswagen Beetles, with our hero Beetle being named Herbie by its owner.

Old Yeller (1957)

This may seem like an odd choice for films to watch before having kids, since it deals with the death of the central character, the dog Old Yeller.

Unless you're made of stone, you can't help but be moved by the eventual climax of this film, but it's a good reminder that not everything in life is upbeat and happy. We also have to deal with setbacks and even death, and while this is obviously a dark theme to be considering with your children, it's a very realistic one which is a part of the world we live in. Be prepared to dip heavily into the tissue box when watching this movie, because it will certainly put you in touch with the more emotional part of your personality.

The Muppet Movie (1979)

This is one of the great films to watch before you have kids, because it will put you in touch with the world of the fantastic, at the same time that it reveals the basic charm of life, as well as some valuable life lessons.
While almost any of the Muppet movies would be good to see in this regard, this particular one portrays the Muppets at the very apex of their powers, with unforgettable songs, terrific comic moments, and a timeless story of two individuals seeking their fortune in Hollywood.

Kermit and Fozzie Bear are the two heroes in question, and on their journey to the city of bright lights, they encounter numerous individuals who add to the craziness, the humor, and the wonder of it all. This is a masterpiece of a movie which you should enjoy just for the fun of it, as well as for how it can prepare you to see things like your children will.