Princess Positivity
Raising My Daughter to See the Good in Princesses
by Michelle Wagman, PassPorter Guest ContributorLast modified 09-22-2016
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“Where there is kindness there is goodness, and where there is goodness there is magic.” - Cinderella
Like a lot of little girls, I grew up wishing to be a princess. I saw every Disney Princess movie, and knew every song by heart. The first movie that I ever saw was “Cinderella” and it continues to be one of my favorites. I could not get enough of the the glitter and glamour of the princess life.
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My little princess with Tiana
Dreaming of a Princess
I always dreamed of the day when I would have a little girl who wanted to be a princess too. That dream came true, and I feel incredibly blessed to have her as my daughter. As her personal Fairy Godmother, I will use all of the pixie dust I can muster to ensure she grows up with kindness and magic.
I love the ballgowns of course, but to me these movies have always meant so much more than pretty dresses. These princesses were heroines to look up to - young women who never gave up on their dreams. They were always polite and treated others with respect. They were seemingly ordinary people who managed to live extraordinary lives. I know there is some negative commentary on encouraging your daughter to be a princess, but I have always seen the most positive aspects of these enchanting tales.
My daughter is only two years old, but she loves princesses! She puts on her sparkly gowns and tiaras, and twirls around like she’s at the royal ball. I feel my heart swell with pride when I see how much she loves these characters, and how enthralled she is with the Disney movies at such a young age. At eighteen months old she could name every princess, and now she can even sing some of the songs! I love being able to show her a new princess movie that she hasn’t seen yet, and see her eyes light up with wonder. It’s almost like being a kid again yourself!
Taking My Princess to Walt Disney World
It was such a magical experience to take my little girl to Walt Disney World for the first time! Some would say she was too young to go, but I found it was the perfect age to go for her first visit. I have been too many times to count, but nothing compares to taking your own child to the happiest place on earth! She was in awe of Cinderella’s castle and she loved all of the music everywhere.
We even lined up to meet one of her favorite princesses - Princess Tiana. It was such an amazing thing to watch her face light up when Tiana held her in her lap and posed for a picture. She really took her time with my little princess, and she even gave her a kiss on the cheek!
I am fortunate to be “friends” with many princesses over the years. (This is Disney lingo for being a princess performer.) I consider it an honour and privilege to play these characters that everyone loves. It is the most wonderful feeling to be able to make a child’s dream come true. By simply giving a hug or signing an autograph, you are creating a lifelong memory for that little princess or prince. The words and actions of each person I interacted with are stored forever in my memory and will always make me smile.
Another thing that princesses teach us is to be polite and have good manners. At our imaginary tea parties at home, we always say “please” and “thank you”. We also make sure to use our napkins and share with others. Princesses are never rude and their sweet demeanour encourages our children to act the same way. If she is having a grumpy day I always remind her to be a “happy dwarf” instead - just like Snow White would say!
Positive Life Lessons from Disney Princesses
I believe the Disney Princesses teach my daughter some very valuable life lessons.
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My little princess with Ariel
From Tiana she learns that with hard work and perseverance, she can achieve her goals. Belle instructs her to look beyond the physical appearance of someone, and see their heart instead. Merida breaks stereotypes of how a princess should act, and allows children to be free to be themselves. Elsa and Anna show her that not every fairytale needs to end with a prince to make you feel complete.
Mulan proves that girls can be strong and independent, and above all fearless. Cinderella epitomizes the true meaning of kindness and compassion to others. Pocahontas is brave and always stays true to herself. Rapunzel is free spirited and sees the world around her with wonder and excitement.
All of these lessons and more I know she will carry with her throughout her childhood. I will always encourage her to be a princess, and be proud of her for choosing to be one.
Comments:
Canada Amy 16,29on 09/23/2016 at 6:15:43 am EDT says: Reply
I am so proud to know you, Michelle. Beautiful article!
Canada Amy 16,29on 09/23/2016 at 8:41:07 am EDT says: Reply
I am so proud to know you, Michelle. Beautiful article!
Canada Amy 16,29on 09/22/2016 at 10:09:59 pm EDT says: Reply
I am so proud to know you, Michelle. Beautiful article!