Mount Rushmore For Kids - An Alphabet Journey is a delightful educational film that follows the curious journey of four young children as they visit the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The film features Hannah Lessly as the narrator, who guides the viewers through the alphabet of interesting facts and trivia about the monument, the presidents it features, and the history of the region.
The movie begins with the foursome entering the monument, awestruck by the rock carving of four U.S. presidents' faces. They are excited to explore the area, and Hannah Lessly, the narrator, propels them on the quest of exploring the place, one letter at a time. From 'A' for Architect to 'Z' for Zoom, the kids learn about different aspects of the monument and the surrounding areas.
The breathtaking natural beauty of the region is well-captured, along with the unique Indigenous history of the place. Using stunning visuals, the film highlights the natural splendor of the granite mountain and the surrounding Black Hills while also ensuring that the region's colonial history is not ignored. The juxtaposition of the natural splendor of the mountain against the monument's human history ensures that children receive a comprehensive understanding of the area.
As the intrepid young explorers journey forward, they discover fascinating facts about each of the presidents commemorated at Mount Rushmore. Using a creative approach, each president's biography is explored in alphabetical order, highlighting their respective contributions to the United States. The children learn about George Washington's presidency, which established the nation's democratic system; Thomas Jefferson's role in writing the Declaration of Independence; Abraham Lincoln's Civil War leadership and ultimately ending slavery, and Theodore Roosevelt's advocacy for conservation.
Along the way, the film ensures that it appeals to children's interests without oversimplifying the complex history of the region. With the help of the young explorers and Hannah Lessly's engaging narration, the movie blends education with entertainment to great effect. For example, the children learn about different animals they might spot in the area- mountain goats, bison, and prairie dogs- and how they relate to the region's history.
The movie also emphasizes the importance of being responsible citizens and proper stewardship of natural resources. The children learn about National Parks and their importance in conservation efforts. They also learn about the threat of wildfires and how humans can work to prevent them.
Overall, Mount Rushmore For Kids - An Alphabet Journey is a delightful movie that serves both as an educational tool and an entertaining viewing experience for kids. The film's fascinating approach to teaching children about history, geography, and conservation will keep young viewers engaged and eager to learn more. The movie is not only informative but also instills civic pride and a sense of responsibility towards preserving the United States natural beauty. It's a perfect watch for kids who are curious about history and adventure-loving.
Mount Rushmore For Kids - An Alphabet Journey is a 2015 family movie with a runtime of 27 minutes.
