Greek mythology for kids: Learn history with your children
Greek mythology for kids is more than just a collection of ancient tales about gods, heroes, and mythical creatures. These stories, blending elements of historical literature and fable, convey important morals that help children better understand the world around them. Through these myths, kids can learn valuable lessons, like empathy. By imagining themselves in the character's shoes, they can grasp the complexities of the human experience in a simple and accessible way. During your next stay at Iberostar hotels in Crete, you can introduce them to the fascinating world of Greek myths and deities. Here are some ideas to get started.
5 Greek myths for kids
The Apple of Discord
When Peleus, the father of Achilles, married Thetis, a sea nymph, they invited all the gods except Eris, the goddess of discord. Offended, Eris crashed the wedding with an enchanted apple inscribed "For the most beautiful." She left it among Aphrodite, Athena, and Hera, who immediately began arguing over it. Unable to resolve the dispute, they appointed Paris, the prince of Troy, as the judge. Aphrodite promised him the love of anyone he desired. Athena offered eternal wisdom and victory. Hera promised power and riches. Paris chose Aphrodite and asked for the love of Helen, whom he then kidnapped, sparking the Trojan War.
This Greek myth for kids teaches the importance of setting aside ego to avoid meaningless conflict, which can escalate into prolonged battles. Instead of division, it emphasizes values like inclusion and coexistence. What might have happened if Paris had refused to choose and the three goddesses had shared the apple like good friends? Or if Eris had been invited and welcomed?
With the Star Camp program, the youngest family members will feel included as they meet peers and learn through play. Iberostar Waves Creta Panorama & Mare, a beachfront resort inspired by Greece's maritime essence, offers family entertainment plans, adapted rooms, and a dining experience that will delight all ages.
Pandora’s Box
Zeus, the ruler of all the gods, wanted to punish humans for their thoughtlessness. In his anger, he ordered Hephaestus to mold a woman from clay and named her Pandora. Endowed with life, Pandora married Epimetheus, the brother of Prometheus. As a wedding gift, a mysterious box arrived from Olympus with strict instructions never to open it. However, Zeus had also given Pandora the "gift" of curiosity. Driven by her desire to uncover the box's secrets, she eventually opened it, releasing all the evils of humanity. Though Pandora tried to close it, she was too late—only hope remained inside. This myth teaches children and teens the importance of reflection, caution, and listening, and warns against the destructive power of unchecked curiosity.
The Labyrinth of the Minotaur
According to this legend of Greek mythology for kids, the labyrinth of Crete (or the Minotaur's labyrinth) was created out of revenge. King Minos had it built to punish his enemies, imprisoning the Minotaur, a half-human, half-bull monster, within it. Every year, seven young men and seven young women were led into this deadly trap for the creature to devour. Many perished until the hero Theseus managed to defeat the Minotaur and escape unscathed.
The moral? Suffering and resentment only generates more suffering and resentment. Is so much hostility worth it? Wouldn't it be better to accept the differences that make us unique, forgive, and respect all beings equally? Share this story with your children while exploring the ruins of the labyrinth's location at the Palace of Knossos. This Crete travel guide will reveal more secrets hidden among the ruins.
The Ship of Theseus
Every island has its own personality, Crete's identity is inseparable from its mythical aura. On its journey from Crete to Athens, Theseus's old wooden ship was constantly breaking down and getting damaged. Whenever a piece broke or a plank rotted, it was replaced so the adventure could continue. By the end of the voyage, the ship had been completely modified. None of the original elements remained, yet the ship was still considered the same. This allowed its crew to reach land safe and sound.
Just like the ship's parts, old and limiting beliefs can be replaced by new ones. Positive change is not only desirable but also necessary. This Greek myth for kids speaks of evolution, resilience, and adaptation—qualities that will help them overcome challenges they encounter along the way.
The Wings of Icarus
Icarus met his tragic end after flying too close to the sun, which melted the wax holding his wings together. He was the son of Daedalus, the architect of the labyrinth of Crete. Once again, King Minos's wrath prevailed, and both father and son were imprisoned on the island, accused of helping Theseus escape. To find a way out, Daedalus crafted wings that resembled those of birds, secured with wax. He warned Icarus not to fly too close to the sun, as the heat would melt the wax. However, emboldened by the thrill of flying, and the sense of power he had in that moment Icarus ignored his father's advice and soared higher and higher. Eventually, the heat melted the wax, leading to his overconfidence becoming his downfall. He fell into the sea, where he was lost forever. This Greek myth for kids serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of arrogance in those who believe they are superior to nature.
The most famous gods of Greek mythology
Athena, Goddess of Wisdom
In Greek mythology for kids, certain characters spark curiosity and help children build self-confidence, encouraging them to appreciate their unique and special intelligence. One such character is Athena, the goddess of wisdom. As Zeus's favorite daughter, she is regarded as the bravest, wisest, and most ingenious of all the gods. Unlike other impulsive and vain deities, Athena acts with order, reflection, and a strong sense of justice. Perhaps her determination will inspire young ones to embrace reading during the holidays.
Hera, Goddess of Olympus and Family
If Zeus is the chief of Olympus, then the powerful Hera complements him with her supernatural strength, as they rule together over the rest of the Greek gods. Their marriage symbolizes the union of their archetypes. Hera is associated with family, motherhood, and home. She also protects pregnant women, their babies, maidens, and widows. Together with Zeus, she has three children: Hebe, the goddess of youth; Ares, the god of war; and Eileithyia, the goddess of childbirth. Just as Hera watches over family bonds, Iberostar family hotels will care for your small or large family during your stay. Let Greek myths for kids and other fascinating stories inspire you in stunning movie destinations like the Greek Islands, where the film Mamma Mia! was shot.
Aphrodite, Goddess of Love
Aphrodite has two sides. One is joyful and hedonistic, celebrating love and beauty in all their forms, while the other is somewhat vain and distrustful, which can lead to jealousy, insecurities, and a superficial perspective when passions run high. Her existence, as expressed in Greek mythology for kids, teaches that all emotions are valid because they are part of being human. However, it is essential to have tools to manage these emotions so they do not become destructive. At the recently renovated five-star resort, Iberostar Selection Creta Marine, you can enjoy a peaceful vacation by the sea, where every family member has the freedom to feel and express themselves fully.
Poseidon, God of the Seas and Rivers
Why not use Greek mythology for kids to teach them about respect for the environment? Poseidon, the god of the seas and rivers, protects the health of the oceans and coasts, ensuring the well-being of the ecosystems and the amazing marine creatures that inhabit them. It’s unwise to provoke him with unsustainable actions like throwing plastics into the water; when he gets angry, he can unleash storms, floods, and tsunamis with just a wave of his trident. In return, there are coral reefs and other submerged natural wonders that help maintain the balance of the entire planet.
Hermes, Messenger of the Gods
Hermes, the son of Zeus and the Pleiad Maia is the messenger of the gods and one of the most well-traveled deities of Olympus. His role as a sacred mailman takes him from place to place, allowing him to explore distant lands and the far reaches of the cosmos. With golden wings on his feet, he can reach his destinations quickly. Hermes is also associated with wisdom and is often referred to as "the one with many forms of cunning." Thanks to his exceptional reasoning skills, he has the ability to decipher hidden meanings and interpret dreams.
Using Hermes as an example, encourage your kids to travel and explore while you pack the family suitcase for your vacation. And don’t forget to include a zero-waste travel kit! The life lessons of Greek mythology for kids will guide your steps like a magical propeller.
