Giraffes Can't Dance

What the Story is About

Gerald is a tall, gangly giraffe who wants to dance. But at the Jungle Dance, all the other animals laugh at him. His knees are too crooked. His legs are too thin. "Giraffes can't dance," they say.

Hurt and humiliated, Gerald walks away—until a wise and gentle cricket encourages him to listen to the music in his heart. That's when something magical happens. Gerald dances, not like the others, but in a way entirely his own.

Told in a delightful rhyming tone, the story flows like a light and musical song, making even big emotions feel safe and accessible for young readers.

Why This Book Matters

Gerald's story reminds us that it's okay to move differently, to grow at our own pace, and to listen to the music within—not just the applause around us.

Sometimes, all it takes is a few genuine words of encouragement from the heart to change everything.

At its core, this story is about authenticity—about tuning in to who we truly are rather than squeezing ourselves to fit in.

Before You Read

Start with a gentle question:

What does dancing mean to you? Is it only about following steps—or can it be about how you feel inside?

Then, play music that is calming or joyful to you—something the children might enjoy or relate to.

Say something like:

"If you could move in your own way—without worrying what others think—how would you move?"

Encourage the children to move around in their space with their eyes open to ensure safety, especially in smaller classrooms.

They can sway, twirl, hop, or move their fingers or toes. There's no right or wrong way.

If you're comfortable, you can record the activity and invite children to watch themselves later. This often helps them notice how different and beautiful everyone's "dance" is.

Because this isn't really about dancing—

It's about helping children ask: What feels true to me? Can I trust that?

Discussion Prompts (After Reading)

• For Ages 5–7:

  • How do you think Gerald felt when the animals laughed at him?

  • What helped Gerald feel better?

  • What do you do when you feel left out?

• For Ages 8–9:

  • Why do you think the animals laughed at Gerald?

  • What do you think the cricket did differently from the others?

  • Have you ever felt like Gerald? What helped you?

  • Can you think of a time when someone encouraged you? How did it feel?

Activities to Try

1. The Encouragement Circle

Form a quiet, trusting circle. Then, each child takes a turn in the "Gerald Spot."

They can begin by sharing something they've always wanted to try—but haven't—because they were afraid of being laughed at or judged.

It could be something like:

"I want to sing, but I think my voice sounds funny."

"I want to wear bright colours, but I'm scared people will tease me."

After each sharing, a few classmates can respond with gentle, real, specific, and kind words of encouragement.

For example:

"I've heard you hum, and I think your voice is soft and sweet."

"I'd love to see you in bright colours—it would suit your smile."

Let children know that this is not about cheering loudly or giving advice. It's about listening deeply and offering genuine encouragement, just like the cricket did for Gerald. You might want to go first, as the teacher. That small act of vulnerability from you could open up the room in a powerful way.

2. "Things I Want to Try… Even If I'm Not Good at Them (Yet!)"

Give each child a small sheet of paper or a drawing card. Ask them to complete this sentence:

"One thing I want to try (or keep trying), even if I'm not good at it yet, is…"

Encourage them to draw or write their answer. It could be drawing, public speaking, playing a sport, or even making a new friend.

Say something like:

"It's okay to not be great at something right away. Gerald wasn't. But he didn't give up. He kept going in his own way—and look what happened."

Create a small display called "The Yet Wall," where children can post their notes. It becomes a quiet space of courage.

Optional: After a few weeks, come back to the wall. Ask if anyone wants to share how their "yet" is coming along.

Deeper Reflections for the Teacher

The dancing in this book is just a symbol. It stands for any way in which a child might express who they are.

Some children might not want to dance, speak out loud, or join in immediately. That's okay.

What matters is creating a classroom where children feel safe to be themselves.

Even one genuine and heartfelt moment of encouragement can become a turning point in a child's story.

Some children may be put off by harsh comments and give up what they set out to do. This story reminds us to gently encourage them to stay with what they want to explore. They don't have to be great right away. With time and self-trust, they might discover a new path entirely—just like Gerald did.