9 Lessons to Learn From Disney Princesses (and 1 to Ignore)

Princesses have a reputation for teaching girls about beauty, boys, and not much else. While that may be true for some fictitious royals, it doesn't apply to Disney's leading ladies. Hidden beneath those gorgeous gowns are independent and intelligent young women who have a lot to teach your daughter. From overcoming obstacles to one-upping the boys, check out all the lessons your little one can learn from these iconic characters.

Overcoming obstacles, while difficult, is possible.
Disney

Overcoming obstacles, while difficult, is possible.

Before Cinderella wore gowns and glass slippers, she donned rags and cleaned houses. She refuses to settle, however, and eventually works her way into the castle — with some help, of course.

Friends come and go, but family is forever.
Disney

Friends come and go, but family is forever.

Siblings may bicker and battle, but at the end of the day they stand by each other's side. When Elsa needs help harnessing her powers, it's Anna who gets her through the difficult time.

Adults know best.
Disney

Adults know best.

Princess Aurora shows so much respect for the three good fairies and always listens to their advice. The one time she fails to follow it, she ends up taking a superlong nap.

Anything boys can do, girls can do too!
Disney

Anything boys can do, girls can do too!

Merida and Mulan would happily trade in their tiaras for swords, but society tells them they can't. When their families need help, however, it's these two girls who save the day.

Reading is fun.
Disney

Reading is fun.

Imagine how happy this princess would be with a Kindle! Belle always has her nose in a book, proving that girls can have beauty and brains.

Imagination goes a long way.
Disney

Imagination goes a long way.

Living alone in a tower, Rapunzel comes up with some creative ways to entertain herself. She benefits from this unique thinking later on, when facing off against a few not-so-good men.

Appreciating nature is important.
Disney

Appreciating nature is important.

Pocahontas was going green before it became cool. The princess reminds people that the earth is something to be cherished, not destroyed.

A strong work ethic pays off.
Disney

A strong work ethic pays off.

As a child, Tiana dreamed of opening a restaurant to honor her father. After many years of hard work, and a few mishaps, her dream comes true.

Don't be afraid to discover new places.
Disney

Don't be afraid to discover new places.

These two Disney princesses are eager to explore the world beyond the palace gates. For Jasmine, that means taking a stroll through the village to see how the less fortunate live, while Ariel takes a step onto unfamiliar land — literally!

Fruit will not kill you.
Disney

Fruit will not kill you.

One bad apple — in this case, a poisoned one — shouldn't spoil the whole bunch. Don't let your tot use Snow White's fate to get out of eating healthy.