I'm always reminded of the Langston Hughes poem, Harlem, A Dream Deferred, when I speak with my kids about their dreams and goals. Historically, this poem discusses the racial injustices that Black Americans faced at what was supposed to be the end of slavery. To avoid the history lesson, let's just say it discusses how some were living the American Dream while others longed for the opportunity.
As a parent, I always tell my kids to reach for the stars and while I see sparkle in their eyes, I am just not sure they know what that means or how to achieve it. Last week, the wonderful people of Disney came to join and provided great information on one way to help your teen see their dreams unfold. Disney Dreamers Academy in partnership with Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine was created to inspire high school students to dream big and start now.
This 4 day event where 100 teens and a chaperone from across the country “participate in a series of sessions and workshops held within the magical setting of Walt Disney World Resort, virtually turning the theme parks into vibrant classrooms where Dreamers can imagine bright futures, make exciting discoveries and learn how to put their goals into action. are inspired and reminded to reach for the stars.” It is easy to tell our kids what to do but often times a lot harder to show them which is why Disney Dreamers Academy also pours into the chaperones. They are also given the opportunity to partake in activities that inspire them to dream big.
I believe one of the worst things in life is living with regrets. Langston asks does a “dream deferred fester like a sore” Dreams are like fresh fruit, sweet and shiny but when left to rot, it becomes unrecognizable. This inner turmoil leads to a life of regrets. Let Disney Dreamer Academy alumni William Williams tell you about the Power of Courage and Faith. I learned that while at Disney Dreamers Academy, he basically did what he could to not stand out but this 4 day powerful event elicited something in him and here is the result. He is a Dreamer!
Do you know a Dreamer!
If they are residents of the United States, between the ages of 13-19 and in high school, please have them apply by visiting https://www.disneydreamersacademy.com/be-a-dreamer/apply/ Applications are accepted until October 31, 2017. The application is simple and just requires the answering of three questions.
Please share this rewarding experience so they can be a Dreamer!!!
Disclosure: Disney invited me to an event to learn about the program but all opinions are my own
I think this is a brilliant idea, and you’re right – SO many people fall short when showing their kids exactly HOW to achieve their dreams. This is wonderful!
Libby Romano
http://www.luxymom.com
Langston Hughes is a great person to get inspiration from (and a great person for kids to be inspired by). The event sounds fantastic too
This sounds like a wonderful program and so helpful to inspire kids to chase their dreams and stretch themselves! Love it!
I’m happy that Disney has such a program and is helping the children in the community.
I love that quote. So inspiring. This is a such an awesome initiative by Disney. It’s a great opportunity for the teens.
i’m sorry I didnt know about this before i would have def let my sister fill out that form! it’s totally great to dream esp as kids where you are more open to dream anything.
What a great program from Disney! I would say that my oldest child is definitely a dreamer!
I had not heard of the Disney Dreamer Academy. My daughter would thrive in a program like this.
What an awesome sounding programme, it really fits in with my idea of Disney so it is awesome to hear they are running such a club.
My mom told me when I was younger that I should always dream big dreams. Same to what I say to my kids that they will be able to think of a dream and always have the capacity of reaching it by dreaming.
Thank you for this. I know lots of parents of young dreamers. Dreams are powerful and should be encouraged. I am sharing this to my Facebook wall for those parents.
What a WONDERFUL program! I always love to see kids being inspired and any kind of program that helps anyone achieve their dreams. It’s always important to dream big! 🙂
Disney always has one thing or another and I love it! I love the programs they have for kids.
I just love the Langston Hughes words. It’s true, it’s so disheartening to see someone live in regret because they didnt pursue their dreams or simply gave up on them.
A Dream Deferred is probably the first Langston Hughes poem I ever heard as a kid. It’s still one of my favorites.
I love Langston! Disney always has things that are created towards children, and this is no difference. This sounds like a wonderful program!
This is absolutely great! I love that you are encouraging dreamers and this event. Never heard of Disney Dreamers until now. Thanks for sharing!
I love this program! I have young cousins whom I will be referring to this program next year.
Whattt Cam was there? Lemme find out I need to attend one of these to meet my used-to-be-boo. Good to see Disney giving back
Wow this sounds like an amazing event! I wish we were in the US to apply.