My son is a huge fan of Dora the Explorer, and as such I have found myself watching quite a few episodes over the past few years. I have found them to be excellent ways for my son to learn basic concepts, such as numbers, letters and colours. As I watched, though, I realized that Dora teaches lessons about much deeper truths. Her philosophy of life, while not obviously stated, is apparent in every episode. The way she lives her life can teach you a great deal about how you should be living yours.
Dora has cultivated an extended network of loyal friends.
Dora has surrounded herself with a loyal group of friends who are always willing to help her on her adventures. Each friend brings something different to the mix. The Map knows where everything should be, and how to get there. Backpack carries within her an unending supply of helpful equipment. Benny, Isa and Tico all own different vehicles that Dora can use to get places. Dora has reached out to these people and created strong, useful connections that she never takes for granted. Which brings us to the second point:
Dora knows when to ask for help.
Although she is brave, resourceful, and intelligent, Dora is not infallible. There are things she cannot do and things she does not know. She is never hesitant or reluctant to ask for help in these situations. Dora knows when the situation has gotten out of her control, and she is able to reach out to ask assistance from the network of friends she has nurtured around her.
Dora does not take foolish risks.
She is, after all, and Explorer, which means that she can get herself into some tight situations. On an average day she might find herself running from Sand Crabs, sledding down mountains filled with Snow Bears, or rafting through Sneezing Snake infested waters, but she always mitigates those risks by putting safety first. She does not ride in Tico’s car without first putting on a seatbelt. She does not go in a boat without at life jacket, and she does not fly in Isa’s rocket ship without a space suit. She takes risks, of course, but her risks are all calculated.
Dora is willing to stop and help people.
Throughout her adventures Dora is always available to help those she encounters. She values all people equally, and will help Santa Claus, Kings and Princes as readily as she will help a tree frog, or a flower. Although this might take time away from her day, and she might have to brave multiple hazards along the way, she always has time to reach out to people and ensure their safety and happiness.
Dora is fluent in more than one language.
Dora can speak both English and Spanish perfectly. Although in this age of globalization she might want to learn Mandarin, or Cantonese as well, the fact that she has mastered two languages at such a young age, and understands the value of this, will only help her in the future. She can talk to everyone she meets, and has extended her network of friends and associates as a result.
Dora takes time to celebrates her successes.
Every episode ends with Dora and her friends singing an exuberant song exhorting the fact that “We did it!” Dora knows the value of taking the time to acknowledge realizing goals, and recognizing those people who helped her attain them. This is something that should be done every day.
