The Window Wave
An original Tuck In Books story

On Monday, Ari the otter carried a yellow bag to the little playroom by the river. Mama carried the spare socks. Inside, there were smooth stones to sort and a wide table for painting. Ari held Mama’s paw very tightly.

“I want you to stay,” Ari whispered. Mama bent down. “You wish we could stay together.” She showed Ari the day’s picture cards: play, snack, garden, lunch. “I will come after lunch.” Miss Fern stood beside the window. “I can stay with you here.”

Mama and Ari did their goodbye: one hug, one nose touch and a wave through the window. Mama said goodbye and went out the door. Ari’s eyes felt wet. Miss Fern sat nearby. “You can miss her. Would you like to sit with me or hold your bag?” Ari held the bag.

For a little while, Ari watched the window. Then a green stone on the table caught his eye. It looked like the stone outside his home. He carried it to Miss Fern. “We have one like this.” “Will you show me?” she asked.

Ari sorted two stones, ate a slice of pear and dug a little river in the garden. He missed Mama again while washing his paws for lunch. Miss Fern helped him find the last picture card. After lunch, Mama appeared at the door.

“You came,” Ari said, pressing against her coat. “I did.” He showed her the green stone. On Tuesday, he still wanted Mama to stay. They did one hug, one nose touch and a window wave. Miss Fern was there. Ari could miss Mama and have someone help him while he waited.

The End

A few words for tonight
- Read the goodbye and reunion together.
- Name the trusted adult who stays in your child’s setting.
- Choose a short goodbye ritual that fits your real routine.

Read more: https://www.tuckinbooks.com/stories/separation-anxiety/
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