Lily the little otter was getting ready for a swimming lesson. But Lily didn’t want to go! She squeezed her eyes shut and held onto Mama Otter’s paw. “I don’t like swimming,” she whispered. “The water feels…big.”
Mama Otter smiled gently. “It *is* big, sweetie. But big can be fun! And I’ll be right here with you.” She held Lily close. “Sometimes, trying something new feels a little scary. That’s okay. It takes courage to try.”
At the pool, Lily clung to Mama Otter. Other little otters were splashing and giggling, but Lily just wanted to hide. Mama Otter sat on the edge of the pool and dipped her paw in. “See? It’s nice and cool. Let’s just dip *your* toes in.”
Lily slowly dipped her toes. It *was* cool! And…not scary. She giggled a little. Mama Otter showed her how to kick her feet. “Like you’re riding a tiny bicycle!” she said. Lily practiced kicking, and soon she was splashing a little too.
Then, Mama Otter held Lily gently under her arms and helped her float. “You’re floating, Lily! You’re a little boat!” Lily opened her eyes and smiled. Floating *was* fun! She wasn’t scared anymore.
She practiced blowing bubbles, making silly faces, and splashing with Mama Otter. She even tried going under the water for just a second, holding her breath and wiggling her toes. It felt like a secret, bubbly adventure!
By the end of the lesson, Lily wasn’t scared at all. She was splashing and playing and laughing with all the other little otters. “I love swimming!” she shouted. Mama Otter gave her a big hug. “I knew you would, my brave little otter.”
As they walked home, Lily held Mama Otter’s paw. She felt proud of herself for trying something new. She learned that even when things seem big and scary, with a little courage and a lot of love, you can do anything. Now close your eyes, little one, and dream of splashing and playing just like Lily.