I have yet to see the movie Tangled but I’m hoping I’ll have a chance to go soon. Originally, fairy tales were not just for kids, but were a form of entertainment for adults. The stories formed part of the oral story-telling for generations and have been used for all kinds of research projects. This month, though, I’ve been highlighting how fairy tales can be used to promote kindergarten readiness.
Rapunzel has meaning for both children and grown-ups. All of us have a comfort-zone, symbolized by the tower. When we venture beyond the walls, we sometimes find ourselves in a scary place, like Rapunzel in the desert. But 
the situation also brings change and growth.
While working on Rapunzel, I saw how this especially relates to kindergarten. Children move beyond the safety and security of home to the scary place of kindergarten. School has new challenges but expands the child’s world. Having adventures sometimes takes courage. Kindergarten is a new adventure for both kids and their parents and caregivers. A bad-hair day takes on new meaning. What are your concerns about the kindergarten adventure?
(For more fun, read and talk about different versions of Rapunzel. This book is by Christianne C. Jones but there are many, many more. )