Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae

As part of Social Inclusion Week, we are reading Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae.

Social Inclusion Week is about helping everyone feel welcome, valued and included no matter their differences.

Giraffes Can’t Dance is about Gerald the giraffe who loves to dance but struggles because of his long legs and awkward movements.  When the other animals laugh at him, Gerald feels sad and left out.  With the support from a friendly cricket, Gerald learns that he does not need to dance like everyone else.  Instead, he discovers his own way of dancing. Gerald shows that believing in yourself, can help you achieve things you did not think possible. He reminds us that everyone has their own way to shine.

How can reading Giraffes Can’t Dance help support your child’s learning

• Bright and colourful illustrations with attention to details showing Gerald’s feelings.
• Rhyming text with lots of descriptive language helping children imagine Gerald dancing in a jungle setting
• Encourages children to celebrate their unique strengths and talents.
• Opens conversations about kindness, inclusion and helping others feel valued and welcomed.