Do you ever stop to think about how you encourage your children to follow their dreams, particularly when they’re very young and so reliant on you? I think, as parents, we’d all agree that we want our kids to grow up confident and happy and “to be all they can be.” But what actions do we take to help them along their way? We recently received a special edition copy of Disney’s The Little Mermaid movie and I automatically started doing my thing – I pulled out my supply bins with items used for mermaid birthday parties we’ve hosted. Wouldn’t it be extra special to have a Little Mermaid viewing party with props? And snacks? And mermaid outfits? I did some quick sewing and a lazy afternoon came along where we got to hang out and watch the movie. The girls were beyond excited to wear their mermaid outfits while they watched. Even though they’ve seen the beloved classic in the past, they were once again captivated by the characters and story line. As the movie was winding down, the girls started playing. They took the fishing net off the table, dug seashells out of the bins, carefully placed goldfish crackers around the room, and created a whole imaginary world. They played for several hours, acting out scenarios from The Little Mermaid, transforming into different characters, and making up their own scenes. That’s when it struck me – developing their imaginations and experimenting through role play is a WONDERFUL way for my girls to try out and find their inner voice, to develop their self-confidence. Perhaps providing props and snacks and costumes is my way of encouraging my little people to follow their dreams. Do you think? If you like making costumes for your kids, too, you can find the 30-minute mermaid skirt tutorial here. Now that you have your costumes ready, why not plan a special afternoon with your kids to watch The Little Mermaid – It will be available for the first time on Blu-ray Combo Pack and HD Digital October 1st. Click here to order your copy of The Little Mermaid. And now for the giveaway!! For your chance to win a $50 Visa Gift Card and a Little Mermaid Diamond Edition Blu-ray Combo Pack, please tell me:

How do you encourage your children to follow their dreams?

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This sweepstakes runs from 9/9/13 – 10/15/13.
Be sure to visit the Disney’s Little Mermaid page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ reviews and find more chances to win!