Diverse friendships and adult/child friendships

Charlotte's Web

By E.B. White

In this classic children’s story a beautiful friendship blossoms between an old spider and a young pig; Charlotte and Wilbur. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte weaves messages praising Wilbur in her web that keeps the farmer from killing the pig. After Charlotte helps save Wilbur, she reaches the end of her natural life span and dies. Her legacy is carried on through her children that Wilbur befriends, but none of them can replace Charlotte. This story will enhance a child’s emotional intelligence by showing them that no matter how diverse, you can always make friends. Charlotte was an old spider, and Wilbur a young pig but they became the closest of friends. This story shows children that age, race, size, and gender make no difference when it comes to friendship. They will be able to recognize that friendship comes in all shapes and sizes. This story also touches on grief and mourning. Wilbur mourned for the loss of his friend Charlotte, but recognized the blessing in the children she left behind.