The Meaning Behind the Name

The name Purple Giraffe Psychology was inspired by the following facets:

Purple – “Purple fosters creativity by awakening our senses while promoting the quiet necessary to make intuitive, insightful observations.” (Kate Smith)

Source: Meaning of Purple

Giraffe – giraffes present strength, have the largest heart of all land animals, stand above the crowd, confident, are often used in children’s literature as a protagonist, helping young children experience a feeling of self-positivity & ‘can do’ attitude.

Source: Discover Wildlife | Giraffe Worlds

Literature – Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae/ Illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees

Gerald the Giraffe can’t dance as his legs are too long & skinny and his neck is too long. His animal friends can dance in their own way.

‘Excuse me!’ Coughed a cricket who’d seen Gerald earlier on.

‘But sometimes when you’re different, you just need a different song.’

With help from a friend, Gerald believes in himself and dances. Philosophically, Gerald is faced with stereotypes of behaviour and thoughts about his and others beliefs.

Given no other contributing factors, children with learning difficulties have the ability to learn, however, they need to learn differently to their peers without learning difficulties.

Source: Teaching Children Philosophy

How do we support children and adolescents in developing their learning capabilities?

Purple Giraffe Psychology:

• Works with parents and schools to assist in supporting students
• Conducts psychometric educational assessments
• Focusses on the strengths and weaknesses of the child
• The information gathered can provide a sound base on which to build the learning program best suited to your child