Family values for kids

Take Care of Your Actions: Little Ones Are Watching

In the lively heart of a bustling city, Pari and his wife Cherry lived a happy life with their family. Pari was a wise, kind man, and Cherry—a graceful woman from a royal background—had a unique habit: she didn’t like old or worn-out things and often discarded them without a second thought.

However, Cherry adored children. Every evening, she opened her doors, welcoming neighborhood kids to fill her home with laughter and joy. Among them was a bright little girl named Swapna, known for her big, curious eyes and kind heart. Swapna quickly became Cherry’s favorite, spending afternoons playing and learning in Cherry’s cozy living room.

One sunny day, while Cherry and Swapna played, Cherry noticed an old, dusty box on the table. With a wrinkled nose, she muttered, “I can’t stand old things!” and tossed it into the dustbin.

Just then, Granny—Cherry’s elderly mother-in-law—walked in and spotted the box in the bin. She gasped, her eyes filled with tears. "Cherry," she said gently, "that box was a precious gift from your father-in-law. It’s one of my last memories of him."

Seeing Granny’s sorrow, Cherry felt a pang of regret. Swapna watched quietly, absorbing everything.

The next evening, Swapna returned to play, her mind still on Cherry’s actions. Spotting a small red and gold box on the shelf, she confidently picked it up and threw it into the dustbin, mimicking Cherry’s previous gesture.

Cherry saw Swapna’s action and felt surprised and upset. “Swapna! Why did you throw that away?” she scolded, her voice sharper than she intended.

Hearing the commotion, Granny came over. Noticing Swapna’s tears, she gently sat down with her. "Sweetheart, why did you throw the box away?" she asked softly.

Swapna sniffled and said, “Yesterday, Cherry Aunty threw away an old box. I thought she’d be happy if I did the same. Did I make a mistake, Granny?”

Granny gave her a warm hug and a gentle smile. "Dear, it’s always good to ask before throwing away someone’s things. You were only trying to help, but it’s important to check first, okay?"

Swapna nodded, feeling better as Granny handed her a piece of chocolate. Cherry, watching this, realized her own mistake. She knelt beside Granny and Swapna, taking Granny’s hand.

“I’m sorry, Granny,” Cherry said, her voice full of remorse. “I didn’t consider how my actions might look to little Swapna. I’ll be more mindful from now on.”

From that day on, Cherry became more thoughtful, cherishing her surroundings and considering the impact of her actions, always remembering that little ones were watching and learning from her.