Many things came easily to my daughter at school until she took her first spelling test. She came home in tears, frustrated that she couldn’t ace this assignment like she had so many others. In the 2025 remake of Superman, the title character is similarly frustrated. Setbacks and defeats force him to wrestle with tough questions about his identity and purpose. Through it all, he has the support of many friends and family members who encourage him to keep going.
Watch the movie with elementary-age children and use one or more of the following activities to further explore its themes of struggle and doing good.
Struggling. In the opening scene of the movie, Superman collapses in the snow after losing a fight. His dog Krypto comes to the rescue, dragging him back to their fortress, where robots help Superman heal. Invite children to recall a time that they tried and failed to do something. Ask: Who or what helped you to keep going when you were struggling? Make a list of those supportive people and things. Encourage kids to keep a copy where they can consult it when they need help..
Doing good. Superman cherishes a message from his parents. It encourages him to “do the most good in the world”. Ask children: What are some good things that Superman has done in the world? What good things have you done in the world? Invite them to draw a picture of a good thing that they could do in the future. Encourage them to share their ideas.
Saving animals. Superman is a hero not just for humans but for other creatures, too. During a major battle, he rescues various animals that are in danger of being crushed. Invite children to act out scenarios in which an animal is endangered and they try to help. Encourage them to think of real-life situations in which animals are struggling and actual ways they can make a difference.
Human rights. Because Superman was not born on Earth, he’s treated as though he has no human rights. Instead of being given a chance to defend himself in court, he is exiled to a pocket universe where Lex Luthor tortures him. Ask children: What groups of people are being exiled and/or treated badly in this country? What rights should every person have? Invite them to make posters championing these human rights. Or encourage them to send messages to elected officials asking for changes to policies that dehumanize people.
Identity choices. When Superman learns that his birth parents intended him to rule Earth, he struggles with his sense of identity. His adoptive parents remind him that he can choose the kind of person he wants to be. Invite children to reflect on their own identity. Say: Close your eyes and take a deep breath in (pause) and let it out. (pause) Picture yourself with a group of people you don’t know. (pause) Imagine introducing yourself to them. How do you describe yourself? (pause) What do you do to show you care about them? (pause) How do they respond to your words and actions? (pause) How do you feel as you interact with them? (pause) Breathe slowly in (pause) and out (pause), and then open your eyes. Encourage children to share their reflections.
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