Today marks the launch of Disney Princess Find Your Wonder, an initiative designed to empower young children to be adventurous, imaginative and find their own wonder.
Following new research suggesting that half of parents believe their children lose their ‘sense of wonder’ before the age of six, Disney has created free tools for parents including a Wonder List and Wonder Webisodes inspired by Disney Princess storytelling.
The Wonder List aims to support children in their quest to discover and unlock their inner skills and strengths, with a list of fun activities themed on the special and unique traits of the different Disney Princess characters. Children can learn how to be brave and strong like Merida, fearless and clever like Mulan, or strong-willed and determined like Princess Jasmine.
Disney Princess has enlisted the help of Strictly dancefloor star and nature enthusiast Helen Skelton, GB Olympian superstars, swimmer Alice Dearing and Olympic gymnastics medallist Jessica Gadirova, to encourage children to unlock their inner princess.
The campaign launches after a poll of 1,000 British mums and dads with children aged 3-6, found a third (33%) think that supporting their child’s hobbies and interests is one of the most important aspects of parenting, with over a quarter (26%) understanding the importance of being a good role model.
94% believe their role as a parent to support their child’s curiosity and pleasure in discovering new things, so they can become the best possible version of themselves, with nine in 10 parents (94%) consider playing make-believe and trying new things help keep their child’s sense of wonder alive.
And 61% of parents think exploring nature is the most effective in preserving and nurturing their child’s sense of wonder, followed by exploring a new area (46%) and then trying out a new sport (23%), as well as 70% agreeing that playing with toys – including Disney Princess dolls – helps spark imagination and curiosity.
Together in the Wonder Webisodes, the role models share insight into their own wonder and experience taking inspiration from Disney Princess stories. Parents and children can follow Jessica recount the moment she discovered her passion for gymnastics, Alice share her passion for encouraging children to learn swimming from a young age,and learn how Helen grew up embracing her love for the outdoors.
Child Psychologist & Consultant on the Wonder List, Laverne Antrobus, commented:
“Young children have a natural sense of curiosity, which helps them begin to navigate the world around them. At this age, children develop their sense of adventure and wonder as they learn to use creativity through play and to discover what is possible. As someone who has observed children playing at this age, it is evident that imaginative play, whether that be sock puppets, dress up, or interacting with toys and dolls – the journey of self-discovery is a great way for them to find their own wonder.
By encouraging children to be brave to try new skills such as throwing a tea party like Cinderella or swimming like Ariel – both of which are in the Disney Princess Wonder List, parents are ensuring their child’s creativity and passion for new discovery continues – an invaluable tool for life.”
Selecting Princess Ariel as her personal source of wonder, GB swimmer Alice Dearing commented, “I see a lot of Ariel from Disney’s The Little Mermaid in me – her curiosity, determination, and sense of adventure are traits I’ve tried to carry to adulthood. By sharing my personal journey of finding my wonder on my Wonder Webisode, I hope to inspire children to embrace their strengths and explore endless possibilities.”
Choosing bravery and adventure with Moana, Helen Skelton said, “When I was growing up, exploring the outdoors and immersing myself in nature provided such great opportunities for exploration and curiosity, so I’m thrilled to be teaming up with Disney Princess to encourage children to do the same.”
Olympic medallist gymnast Jessica Gadirova also said, “As a young gymnast, I’ve always looked up to strong and fearless characters like Princess Jasmine. Had I not had the bravery to try gymnastics at age 6, I wouldn’t have found my passion for this incredible sport – it’s my personal wonder! So, I am so pleased to be a part of this campaign encouraging young children to embrace their inner strength and courage, just like their favourite Disney princesses.”
The Wonder Webisodes are now live on Disney YouTube, and the Wonder List is available via ShopDisney.co.uk for children to start ticking off new skills and unlock curiosity and imagination. The new range of Disney Princess dolls with Mattel are also available to purchase now from leading toy retailers.
TOP 10 ACTIVITIES PARENTS THINK HELP PRESERVE THEIR CHILD’S SENSE OF WONDER AND IMAGINATION:
- Exploring nature
- Exploring a new area
- Trying a new sport
- Riding a bike
- Going stargazing
- Throwing a tea party
- Learning tips about caring for pets
- Learning a new dance
- Designing a journal
- Making a sock puppet
