Unexpected life lessons in classic children’s stories
A good story can sweep us off our feet, take us to faraway lands, change our world views, or even teach us a lesson or two about life. Children’s stories and fairy tales, in particular, invite us to imagine a world beyond the one we live in, with wizards, queens, knights, beasts, flying carpets, and talking animals. In medieval times, fairy tales were coded with messages to preserve the values and beliefs of that society through the ages. While some of the lessons and morals we picked up from the Grimm Brothers may not have aged well, they remain subject to interpretation, as do stories from Indigenous oral tradition. Hidden within some of the most celebrated children’s stories in history are complex life lessons that continue to resonate with audiences from ages 8 to 88. From the cautionary tale of surrendering one’s voice in Disney’s The Little Mermaid to the life-saving power of storytelling in Islamic culture’s Arabian Nights, fairy tales and fables carry infinite wisdom for those from all walks of life. Read on to uncover the life lessons and unexpected messages in children’s stories.
2025-01-21T12:34:49Z
Questions all grandchildren should ask their grandparents
The relationship between grandparents and grandchildren should never be underestimated. Grandparents can play many important roles in the lives of their grandkids. Besides offering unconditional love, they provide acceptance, patience, and stability within the extended family circle. They can teach, imparting wisdom and experience to curious young minds. They can furnish trusted advice, lend a supportive ear, or simply listen to their little ones. Grandparents sometimes serve as primary caregivers, and can foster emotionally close connections with their youthful charges. And when all is said and done, grandpa and grandma are simply fun to be with! But like all of us, grandparents aren't around forever. And because they have so many stories and experiences from their own lives to share, there's no time like the present to sit down with them and learn all you can from your parents' parents. But are you wondering what to ask? Click through and find out the questions all grandchildren should ask their grandparents
2024-01-24T14:18:50Z
Why is the color blue rare in nature?
The color blue has remained both elusive and mesmerizing to civilization for thousands of years, and has fascinated scientists, artists, and dreamers alike. Not only is it the nickname for our planet, but a survey also found that the world’s most popular color is blue. It is a shade that carries connotations of calm, depth, and endless skies. But while our oceans and skies are blue, the color is actually a rare occurrence. So rare, in fact, that the word “blue” was a relative latecomer in languages around the world. Indeed, it only appeared after the words for red, yellow, black, and white. Color has significant meaning around the world, yet in the natural kingdom, true blue is nearly impossible to find. What makes this color so exceptional and rare? And how has nature learned to create it? Click through this gallery to find out.
2024-12-31T08:06:59Z
