JOY AND THE GIANT: OVERCOMING FEAR
What’s inside...
Facing the Giant of Fear is not a battle fought with weapons, but with the heart's unyielding resolve and unwavering faith. It's a journey that transforms fear from a hindrance into a stepping stone, a path to discovering the depths of one's strength and the power of believing in oneself. In the end, the courageous heart finds that the giant's defeat was not just about conquering fear, but about finding the truest version of themselves—the version unburdened by the shadows of doubt.
Discussion points
What made Joy feel scared in the story, and how did she overcome her fears?
Can you think of a time when you felt like Joy? What helped you feel better?
How did Joy’s friends help her in the story? Why is it important to have supportive friends?
What does bravery mean to you, and who is the bravest person you know?
If you could give Joy one piece of advice, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, maintain an open and non-judgmental tone to encourage your child to express their feelings freely.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences by sharing stories of when you faced and overcame fear.
Highlight the importance of support systems like friends and family, and ask your child about people they trust and feel comfortable with.
After discussing the questions, engage in a creative activity like drawing scenes where Joy felt brave, to reinforce the message of the book.
Praise your child for sharing their thoughts and feelings, reinforcing their confidence in expressing themselves.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Joy, the protagonist, confronts a literal giant representing her fears. With each step she takes towards overcoming it, she grows braver.
Real-World Application: Children can relate this to confronting their own fears, like trying out for a sports team or speaking in front of the class, understanding that it's okay to be scared but also brave to try.
Example Lesson: Resilience through challenges
Explanation: As Joy faces setbacks in her journey, she learns to get back up and continue, highlighting the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: When children face difficulties, such as failing a test or losing a game, they can remember Joy's perseverance and understand that setbacks can lead to growth.
Example Lesson: The power of friendship
Explanation: Joy receives help from her friends throughout her journey, teaching the value of supporting and accepting help from others.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of building supportive friendships and being there for others in times of need.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Joy learns that the 'giant' is not mean but is misunderstood, which teaches her to look beyond initial impressions and empathize with others.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to practice empathy in their interactions and consider other people's feelings and perspectives.