Rufus and the Big Pool
Rufus is afraid of the deep water, but a patient friend helps him take one little step at a time.
The swimming pool was huge and blue. Rufus stood at the edge, toes curled. The water looked so deep. ‘I can’t do it,’ Rufus whispered. His knees were wobbling.
Enzo the elephant smiled kindly. ‘We’ll go slowly,’ he said. ‘First, just put your feet in.’ Rufus sat on the side and dipped his toes. Splash! It was cool and nice.
Next, Rufus stepped into the shallow end with a foam float. Jess the jellyfish swam beside him. ‘I’ll stay right here,’ said Jess. Rufus kicked. Splash, splash, splash!
Day by day, Rufus did more. He blew bubbles. He floated on his back, looking at the ceiling lights. He even put his face in the water. Each time, Jess cheered.
At last, the day came. Rufus pushed off the wall and swam, all by himself, across the pool. ‘I’m swimming!’ he shouted. Everyone applauded. Rufus had never felt so proud.
The little lesson
Small steps make big things possible.
Let’s talk about it
- What is something you were scared to try?
- What did Rufus do first?
Finish stories to collect Rufus as a sticker in your Sticker Book.
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