Olivia the ostrich was a very busy bird. All day long, she zoomed! She zoomed across the savanna, she zoomed around the watering hole, and she even zoomed in circles just for fun. Her mama always said, “Olivia, slow down! You’ll wear yourself out!” But Olivia just couldn’t help it. Zooming was *fun*!
But when the sun began to set, Olivia found zooming wasn’t so fun anymore. She felt wobbly and tired. “Mama,” she said, “I’m too wiggly to sleep!” Mama Ostrich smiled. “That’s because you haven’t slowed down yet. It’s time for our bedtime routine.”
First, Mama Ostrich gave Olivia a gentle feather massage. Olivia closed her eyes. It felt so nice! Then, Mama Ostrich read a story about fluffy clouds and sleepy sloths. Olivia listened carefully, trying to imagine floating on a cloud. It was hard to stop thinking about zooming, but she tried her best.
Next, they had a small snack of sweet berries. Olivia ate them slowly, one by one. Mama Ostrich reminded her, “Slow and steady, Olivia. Just like a sleepy snail.” Olivia giggled. She *was* a little like a sleepy snail now!
Finally, Mama Ostrich sang a quiet song about the stars. Olivia snuggled close, feeling warm and safe. She took a deep breath, and another, and another. With each breath, she felt her wiggles disappear.
“I think… I think I’m ready to sleep,” Olivia whispered. Mama Ostrich tucked her in. “You are, my sweet girl. Slowing down helps your body and your mind rest. Now close your eyes and dream of all the wonderful things you’ll zoom towards tomorrow.”
Olivia closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep, a tiny smile on her beak. She learned that even the busiest ostrich needs a calm bedtime routine. And sometimes, the best adventures happen when you’re resting and dreaming.