Ember Flare and the Storm of Feelings
by

Thomas

A story about Big feelings
for your 2nd Grader.

Ember Flare was a curious dragon who lived in a bright forest. Tall trees stretched high, and sunlight sparkled through the leaves. Ember Flare woke up each day eager to explore new nooks and hidden paths.

Early one morning, Ember Flare hopped on a mossy log and peered across a small stream. Ember heard bird songs filling the air, each note making Ember’s heart dance with joy.

Suddenly, gray clouds slipped over the sun. The day turned dim, and a chilly wind began to blow. Ember Flare felt a tingle of worry in every scale.

Thunder boomed, and raindrops pelted the ground. Ember Flare’s wings trembled as the sky flashed with lightning. Wanting to hide, Ember sped toward a large tree trunk for shelter.

Before Ember Flare could curl into a ball, a calm voice spoke. It was Elder Pine, an old dragon with kind eyes. “Deep breaths can help when you’re scared,” Elder Pine said gently. Ember Flare sniffed, blinking away tears.

Ember Flare tried to breathe in and out slowly, just as Elder Pine suggested. The thunder still roared, and Ember’s heart pounded. But Ember whispered, “I can do this,” while trembling from the noise.

Suddenly, a fierce gust of wind shook the branches. Ember Flare opened wings to take off, hoping to escape the storm. Crack! A broken branch crashed down, forcing Ember to duck and stumble.

Elder Pine nodded calmly. “When big feelings hit, talk to someone you trust. Speak your fear and let it out.” Ember Flare took a shaky breath. “I’m scared,” Ember admitted softly. “The thunder makes my whole body shake.”