The Little Mermaid
MY VERY FIRST FAIRY TALES Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
The Little Mermaid is a classic fairy tale about a young mermaid princess who dreams of becoming human after falling in love with a human prince. She makes a deal with a sea witch, trading her voice for legs, but faces challenges and sacrifices in her pursuit of true love. This version is titled 'My Very First Fairy Tale Little Mermaid'.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the Little Mermaid felt when she first saw the human world? What would you feel in a completely new place?
Why do you think the Little Mermaid was willing to give up her voice for a chance to be human? What are some things that are most important to you?
The Little Mermaid had to make a difficult choice at the end. What do you think about her decision? What would you have done in her place?
What lessons can we learn from the sacrifices that the Little Mermaid made? Do you think all sacrifices are worth it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their emotions and thoughts about the story. Validate their feelings and share your own perspectives to create a deeper connection. Highlight themes of love, sacrifice, and courage, and relate them to everyday situations that your child might encounter. This not only enhances understanding but also develops empathy. Ask open-ended questions that make your child think beyond the story, fostering critical thinking and personal reflection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of self-sacrifice
Explanation: The Little Mermaid sacrifices her voice and endures great pain to gain a human soul and the chance to win the prince's love.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of making personal sacrifices for the greater good or for the happiness of others, teaching them empathy and selflessness.
Example Lesson: The consequences of choices
Explanation: The Little Mermaid makes a significant choice to trade her voice for legs, which leads to unforeseen hardships and ultimately, a tragic outcome.
Real-World Application: This story can help children understand that choices have consequences, and it’s important to think carefully before making big decisions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Despite the pain and challenges she faces as she becomes human, the Little Mermaid remains determined to achieve her goal.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay resilient and persistent when facing their own challenges or when things do not go as planned.
Example Lesson: Unconditional love
Explanation: The Little Mermaid's love for the prince is pure and selfless, as she loves him despite knowing the risks and ultimately saves him without gaining personal reward.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of loving others selflessly and the beauty of pure, unconditional love.