WE'RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT

I’ve always loved reading We’re Going on a Bear Hunt with my children. The rhythm, repetition, and the sense of adventure never fail to capture their imagination—and mine too. But over time, I’ve come to see that this story is far more than just a delightful picture book. Beneath the surface of swishy grass, squelchy mud, and swirling snowstorms lies a rich message about resilience, determination, and the development of character.

Each time the family in the story encounters an obstacle, they respond the same way:

“We can’t go over it.
We can’t go under it.
Oh no!
We’ve got to go through it.”

There’s no shortcut. No easy way out. And notably, no adult swoops in to clear the path. Instead, the family supports each other as they navigate the challenge, pushing forward together. What a powerful metaphor for life, and for learning. As parents and educators, we often face the temptation to remove difficulties for our children. But growth lies not in the avoiding, but in the enduring. As Albus Dumbledore wisely put it:

“We must all face the choice between what is right and what is easy.”

The very goal of the journey in the story is to find the bear—to step into the unknown, to face fear, to be ambitious and brave. Yes, it’s scary. And yes, they end up running back home! But they went. They tried. They pushed themselves out of their comfort zone. And that matters deeply.

As parents, one of the greatest gifts we can give our children is not the absence of struggle, but the confidence and support to work through it. When your child encounters difficulty in their learning—be it a tricky maths problem, a challenging friendship, or a moment of self-doubt—resist the urge to “go over” or “go under.” Stand beside them, encourage their thinking, and walk with them through it.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt might be written for children, but its wisdom applies to us all. In education and in life, the most meaningful journeys are often the ones that challenge us the most. After all, as Theodore Roosevelt said, “Nothing worth doing is ever easy.” 

Mr Casimir Douglas

Sunday 27th July, 2025