Potential spoiler warning!
Earlier in July, my little cousin and I watched Toy Story 5 in theaters.
Buzz, Woody, Jessie and the rest of their crew are dealt with the challenge of Bonnie using Lilypad. A brand-new tablet device, the toys are left unwanted, and Bonnie struggles to fit in with her peers.
Personally, I loved this movie because it ties to the bigger idea of explaining complex concepts in the simplest way possible to children: through use of classic and loved animated characters. Like literally, the Toy Story franchise has existed since 1995!
I know what I took away from this movie, but I was curious how a child would understand it. Naturally, I asked my ten-year-old cousin what she took away. Here are the top three lessons she learned.
1. “Don’t only use your technology for social interactions… it’s better to stay out of drama.”
She noticed how tech was used to isolate peers, such as when Bonnie was constantly being pressured to use her Lilypad in order to fit in with her friends from dance. Additionally, she felt tech can make kids more rude.
2. “Stay out more with your cousins like I am [awe!!!], go on a nice walk, stay balanced with your family.”
She said it’s okay to be yourself, the people who share the same interests as you will find you. Just like Bonnie and her new friend at the end of the movie.
3. “Two heads is better than one… friendship is the best key to your dreams.”
When Lilypad leaves to help Bonnie, she notices the power of teamwork; Jesse and her crew had the same goal as Lilypad - to care for Bonnie. It showed her support and friendship matter more than our screens.
I share the story of how I was cyber bullied, through platforms like the #HalfTheStory community, in hopes it would help someone feel less alone. The fact my little cousin told me how she wants to prioritize human connection over a virtual one means a lot. The world can be a scary place for innocent kids, but I hope more media like Toy Story 5 use their platform to elevate youth voices.
Let’s all take a moment to understand these lessons from a literal child-like wonder!
Long time follower here — this might be my favorite one 🥹