Who Was Walt Disney?
#2 in Who Was . . . ? Series
What’s inside...
This book is a comprehensive biography of Walt Disney, the creative genius who brought us Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, Snow White and so much more. It chronicles his life and achievements, from his humble beginnings in Chicago to the creation of the Disney empire.
Discussion points
What qualities do you think made Walt Disney successful?
How do you think Walt Disney's creations have impacted the world?
If you could meet Walt Disney, what would you ask him?
What is your favorite Disney movie, and what do you love about it?
Can you think of a time when you had to work hard on a project, like Walt Disney did when creating his films?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Walt Disney's story, prompting them to consider how perseverance can lead to success.
Discuss the different emotions portrayed in Disney movies and how they relate to real-life situations.
Connect the discussion to your child’s experiences by asking them to share a time when they tried creating something and how it made them feel.
Watch a Disney movie together after reading the book, and talk about how the themes in the movie relate to what they learned about Walt Disney's life and vision.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Persistence pays off
Explanation: The story of Walt Disney emphasizes his numerous setbacks before achieving success, showcasing his persistence and dedication.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to keep trying and not get discouraged by failures, whether it's in academics, sports, or any other activities.
Example Lesson: Creativity and innovation
Explanation: Walt Disney was a pioneer in animation and theme parks, always pushing the boundaries of what was possible.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think outside the box and be innovative, helping them in problem-solving and creative projects.
Example Lesson: Importance of vision and dreams
Explanation: Disney had a clear vision for his animations and later for Disneyland, demonstrating the power of having a dream and working towards it.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to dream big and understand that with hard work and dedication, they can achieve their goals.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The book highlights how Walt Disney did not work alone but collaborated with a team of talented individuals.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of working with others, sharing ideas, and respecting different viewpoints to achieve a common goal.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Disney faced many challenges, including business failures and financial difficulties, yet he remained resilient throughout.
Real-World Application: Instills a mindset of resilience in children, helping them to cope with setbacks and continue moving forward in their endeavors.