About the Story and Activity
As the canary decorates her cage - her focus is on appearance and her immediate surroundings. The cage represents the body, and when the time comes for her, she is afraid to leave her cage - she doesn’t know who she is without it. She has become so identified with the body that she feels that is who she is. She has forgotten that she is an immortal soul that can fly free.
We are so grateful to our bodies for all they do for us, and we should look after them for as long as we can. But this story reminds us that we are not only our bodies.
When we believe we are not the body (cage) but a soul, we don’t need to fear death at its right time. We can see it as the moment an immortal soul leaves its old cage behind, and flies free.
What You'll Need
Your child’s favourite ‘outfit’
Instructions
Ask your child to choose their favourite outfit - it could be a special dress or T-shirt for example, or perhaps a fancy dress costume.
Let the child enjoy wearing this outfit and take time to describe the outfit together, and ask them what they like about it.
At the end of the day (or time when the child is wearing the outfit) remove the piece of clothing.
Explore the themes from The Canary That Was Afraid to Fly as you ask your child some of the questions below:
You aren't wearing the [item of clothing] anymore, but you’re still the same person. Might you wear it again tomorrow?
Who are you? Are you [child’s name] or are you the [item of clothing]?