WEEK 38 - Should we fear scary moments in fairy tales?

PETRA

While reading Bettelheim's book The Uses of Enchantment I was wondering how it goes with fairy tales at Czech schools. I have found, I hope, one good example. It is a kindergarten in Sluštice near Prague.

The teachers don’t read the fairy tales but tell the stories, every day before lunch time. Usually they choose classic Czech fairy tales collected by Karel Jaromír Erben.

The headmaster says that they do not censor dramatic moments in fairy tales and that they work with a healthy level of fear.

In agreement with Bettelheim, the headmaster says the old fairy tales contain wisdom passed down by ancestors for centuries. They are a hidden guide to life and to the world. Suggestive images and symbols of fairy tales speak deep into the soul of children. Although children do not understand everything rationally, the classic fairy tale supports their imagination and understanding takes place on a deeper level, even unconsciously.

Bettelheim also says that it is important to give the child enough time to absorb the story and think of it. In this kindergarten they tell the same fairy tale all week long, so the children can gradually absorb its meaning. The headmaster also points that fairy tales always lead to unraveling in the end, and with it comes a moment of relief. The important thing is that it instills a sense of order, it brings an understanding of why things are happening.

To make it special they always light a candle and use a bell for a nice and intimate atmosphere. They try to provide a feeling of security and belonging and use the storytelling as a bonding experience.