Neha at the Playroom Door
- Feelings
- 3 min read
- Ages 4–5
Chapter 1
Children laugh behind the playroom door, and I hold Mum’s hand. Today is my first visit, and my fabric rabbit comes with me.
Chapter 2
Inside, I see blocks and a yellow toy duck. I want to build a house for that duck, but I stop beside Mum.
Chapter 3
My tummy feels fluttery, and my fingers squeeze Mum’s hand. Some people call this feeling ‘worry butterflies’; there are no butterflies inside me.
Chapter 4
I watch the playroom from beside Mum, with my rabbit tucked under my arm. Mum stays with me here while I look around.
Chapter 5
First, I can try slow balloon breaths, which I practise at home. No balloon is needed: I put my hand on my tummy.
Chapter 6
I breathe in gently and notice my tummy move. I breathe out slowly through my mouth, without pushing; I can take my time.
Chapter 7
After a few easy breaths, I spot the duck’s feet pointing up. ‘Upside-down duck!’ I giggle, though my tummy still feels fluttery.
Chapter 8
Next, I can hold something soft: my rabbit has smooth ears and fuzzy paws. I rub one ear; I can take my time.
Chapter 9
I sit my rabbit on my knee, but its ear flops over its eyes. ‘Eyes out, rabbit!’ I say, lifting the ear.
Chapter 10
With my rabbit on my knee, I turn towards Mum and speak quietly. ‘Mum, I’m worried about going over to play.’
Chapter 11
Mum listens and says, ‘We can watch together before you choose.’ Watching helps me see where to start; I can take my time.
Chapter 12
My worry is smaller now, though some fluttering remains. ‘I want to start with one block,’ I say, and walk over with Mum.
Chapter 13
I set down one block and turn the duck over. ‘Feet down, duck!’ I say, laughing as I put it beside its house.
Chapter 14
My rabbit rests on my lap while I choose another block. I am playing, and Mum is nearby if I need her.
The End
Sharing a worry can help us take the next step.
How did this story make you feel?
Listen to the story
