The Cinderella Conundrum: Are We Setting Our Daughters Up for a Comical Fairy Tale?

Ah, the enchanting world of Cinderella, where glass slippers, pumpkin carriages, and charming princes reign supreme. But have we inadvertently created a comical fairy tale in which our daughters believe that their lives should mimic that of a Disney princess? Have we questioned the impact it may have on our daughters’ perception of reality, relationships, and footwear choices? So, grab your tiaras and let’s dive into the whimsical world of Cinderella with a dash of humour!

1. The Myth of the Perfect Prince

In the kingdom of fairy tales, the perfect prince awaits, ready to sweep Cinderella off her feet. But let’s be real; finding a prince charming who is also a skilled dancer, a master horse rider, has immense wealth, promises to not let his princess lift her finger and a fluent singer, is about as likely as finding a unicorn in your backyard. Perhaps we should teach our daughters to look for partners who has a good sense of humour, can handle a sink full of dirty dishes, has a good heart, capable of looking after himself, and doesn’t mind  occasionally wearing mismatched socks(for himself and her). After all, a prince is nice, but a partner who can make us laugh is truly priceless!

2. The Magic of Housework

In Cinderella’s world, the mere wave of a wand transforms a dusty home into a sparkling palace. But let’s not forget the real magic that happens when we tackle the never-ending pile of laundry, scrub the floors, and conquer Mount Dishmore. We’re talking about the magic of multitasking, my friends! So, instead of waiting for a fairy godmother to clean up our messes, let’s teach our daughters (sons too) the value of hard work, independence, and the satisfaction that comes from a well-organized sock drawer.

3. Fashion Choices and Glass Slippers

Ah, the iconic glass slipper, a symbol of Cinderella’s transformation from rags to riches. While they may look stunning, let’s be honest; glass slippers are not the most practical footwear choice. Imagine trying to chase a bus or walk on cobblestone streets in those delicate beauties! Instead, let’s encourage our daughters to embrace comfortable shoes that allow them to run, dance, and conquer the world without the fear of breaking a heel. Because real-life Cinderella’s need shoes that can handle a pumpkin carriage ride and a spontaneous dance party at the stroke of midnight.

4. Happily-Ever-After and Personal Fulfilment

In the fairy tale realm, the story ends with a “happily-ever-after,” as Cinderella finds her prince and rides off into the sunset. But in reality, happiness and personal fulfilment come from within, not from a royal marriage. Let’s empower our daughters to pursue their passions, dreams, and personal growth, reminding them that their own happiness should never depend on finding a prince or anyone else for that matter. After all, a woman who loves herself, follows her dreams, and enjoys a good slice of pizza is the true definition of happily-ever-after!


While the Cinderella fairy tale may entertain and captivate our imaginations, it’s important to approach it with a sense of humour and a healthy dose of reality. Let’s teach our daughters that life’s true magic lies in embracing imperfections, working hard, choosing comfortable shoes, and finding personal fulfilment beyond the realm of fairy tales. After all, laughter, self-love, and a wardrobe full of practical footwear are the ingredients that create a happily-ever-after worth living.