My children share a room, which can be complicated. One likes to go to bed early with all the lights off, while another wants to stay up later and read with the light on. They struggle to find a way to accommodate their differences. Throughout Zootopia 2, Judy and Nick also navigate differences that sometimes cause conflict. They have to develop social-emotional skills that strengthen their friendship and help them become better partners.
Watch the movie together and then use one or more of these activities to help children ages 5 and older explore effective ways to build and sustain healthy relationships.
Communication. Judy asks Nick to take over driving during a car chase. When Nick asks what her plan is, Judy ignores his question and jumps out the window, leaving a surprised and frightened Nick to steer the car to safety. Later, they discover that actually communicating with each other strengthens their friendship and helps them work together. Ask: What are some ways that Judy and Nick learned to better communicate with each other? What are some things you do to help you communicate clearly with others? Take turns demonstrating your practices for each other.
Code words. Nick and others use the word “coconut” when they think someone is not being fair or doing something they dislike. Say: Nick says ‘coconut’ to signal that he feels excluded or uncomfortable with Judy’s actions. What are some reasons you might want to use a code word to signal discomfort or frustration? Invite children to pick their own code word and encourage them to use it when needed. Suggest that they share their word with friends and family so they will recognize it as a signal that something needs to change.
Resistance. The Lyxnleys are territorial animals. They continue to expand Tundratown, first by eradicating the snake habitat, and then by planning to freeze over Marsh Market. Invite children to imagine they are animals living in Marsh Market. Say: Use your body to show how you would feel when you learn about the Lyxnleys’ plan. Now strike a pose to show something you might do to resist the Lyxnleys’ takeover. Encourage children to share about their resistance plans and how they might convince the Lyxnleys to make room for others as well as themselves.
Success. Gary repeatedly says, “we shall succeed” because it reminds him that he doesn’t have to do everything by himself. Instead, his family taught him to seek out others to help. Invite children to draw a picture of themselves surrounded by people who help them succeed. Suggest that they include words that describe some of the things these people do to support and encourage them.
Hugs. Gary likes to hug his friends, but some of them do not want a hug. Say: Gary always asks before he hugs his friends because he doesn’t want them to feel uncomfortable. What are some other times we should ask someone’s permission before we do something? Invite children to act out scenarios where they ask for and give permission for various interpersonal actions.
Comments