Study on Content Development of an After-School Program Using 'The Little Prince (Le Petit Prince)'

This study developed an after-school program for first and second-grade elementary school children using Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's widely-read classic, Le Petit Prince (The Little Prince). The research focused on two main questions: identifying the final composition of the after-school program and examining the execution process of the program. Initially, the after-school program was structured into two sets comprising a total of ten sessions, based on twelve essential program components reflecting general characteristics of children. This design allowed flexibility for adaptation by individual program facilitators rather than being rigidly fixed. Qualitative analysis was conducted using detailed execution logs spanning 43 pages and consultation with two institution directors. The analysis identified five key conceptual categories: adapting Le Petit Prince (The Little Prince), anticipated outcomes and objectives, activity implementation methods, emotional understanding and expression, and self-reflection. Within these categories, ten specific themes emerged: Consideration of child development and comprehension level, Understanding the literature and researcher capabilities, Basic character development and literacy skills, Social relationships through competition and cooperation, Motivational questioning and activity desire stimulation, Transition from storytelling to experiential activities, Empathy and emotional exchange, Diverse emotional expression, Operational flexibility of activities, Age-appropriate adjustments and support. The after-school program utilizing Le Petit Prince (The Little Prince) has potential implications for enhancing children's socio-emotional competencies and can effectively bridge early childhood education and elementary care, thus expanding into after-school programs tailored for preschool children.