When it comes to teaching children values and virtues, we need to find a means to embed those truths deeply into their hearts so they will ultimately live by them. As every parent and teacher knows, sermons and lectures bear very little fruit, but when we encase the lessons in good stories, we increase the absorption and the likelihood of action. (Now who was it that came up with that idea?)
As a parent and a teacher, I would choose my read-aloud books very carefully, depending on the values I wanted to discuss and encourage. For example:
Courage and kindness in adversity: ‘The Little Princess’
Bravery/ Redemption: ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’
The folly of pride: ‘The Emperor’s New Clothes’, (the word ‘naked’ is so deliciously naughty and the emperor’s shame so 'felt' that they will want to hear this one over and over!!!)
Kindness to animals: ‘Black Beauty’ and ‘White Fang’
Survival and self-sufficiency: ‘The Hatchet’
The power of love: ‘The Velveteen Rabbit’
How to live simply/contentedly: ‘Little House on the Prairie’
Compassion: ‘Goodnight Mr. Tom’
I think sometimes we underestimate a child’s ability to grasp meaning and enjoyment from these classic stories. I would often be surprised by the thoughts expressed after the day’s chapter, or by the way a boy would stand taller or dream more nobly after a heroic tale.
So ease up on the sermons. How much more fun is it to tell a boastful child, “Be careful you don’t get caught wearing the Emperor’s Clothes!!”
I know as a parent I choose many different books to convey whatever point I’m trying to make. My favourite book to read to teach someone about life has always been Dr. Suess’ “Oh, The Places You’ll Go”, whether I was reading it to a child or friend.
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