Peter Pan – Learning Activities

For the past several years our family has participated in a monthly children’s Book Club.  Through our Book Club, we have read and discussed many classic stories such as Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, Mary Poppins, and more.  Our original “hook” to get the children interested in a book club was to explore many of the stories that served as the inspiration for some of their favorite childhood Disney movies.

Peter Pan Learning Activities

Author Study

As part of our book studies, we have enjoyed learning more about the authors of these classic stories. It has been interesting to discover so many personal and heartwarming tales about those who created these lasting treasures.

One of my favorites is the story of how Peter Pan is still making a real impact on the lives of many special children in London. It seems that in 1929 author J.M.Barrie gave all rights to Peter Pan to the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London, England and this gift continues to provide a great source of income to the hospital even today.

According to the Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity

“Since then the hospital has received royalties every time a production of the play is put on, as well as from the sale of Peter Pan books and other products.  Barrie requested that the amount raised from Peter Pan should never be revealed, and the hospital has always honoured his wishes.

Although he and his wife were childless, Barrie loved children and had supported Great Ormond Street Hospital for many years. In 1929 he was approached to sit on a committee to help buy some land so that the hospital could build a much needed new wing. Barrie declined to serve on the committee but said that he ‘hoped to find another way to help’.

Two months later, the hospital board was stunned to learn that Sir James had handed over all his rights to Peter Pan.”

Children in London still host Peter Pan parties to raise money for the hospital.

Hands-on Activities

We always enjoy including hands-on activities during our Book Club as a way to bring our learning to life.

When Peter Pan first visits the nursery at the Darling house, his encounter with Nana does not end very well – thanks to Nana, Peter Pan loses his shadow!

Peter Pan Learning Activities

Be sure to visit me over at The Library Adventure to find two family-fun Peter Pan hands-on activities about shadows.

  • Learn how to make shadow puppet animals
  • Create Shadow Pictures (Silhouette) of your children

We hope you enjoy reading and exploring this classic adventure tale with your family!

…and we just have to ask…who is your favorite character from Peter Pan?

3 Comments

  2. I think it is great that you are learning about the author as well. I think that is a really good idea.

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