Gratitude starts with something simple, like saying thank you, and grows into a practice that helps kids notice what feels good, safe, and connected.

In this story, Ella the Elephant brings her friends on a picnic and invites them to share something they’re thankful for. Together, they explore what gratitude means and how it feels, especially when you’re thankful for a friend!

This episode helps toddlers and preschoolers:

• Practice putting big feelings into simple, meaningful words
• Notice the people, places, and moments that bring them comfort or joy
• Understand that gratitude can be shown in many ways, like saying thank you, sharing, or doing something kind

You can revisit this story at bedtime, mealtime, or any quiet moment to help your child reflect on what felt good in their day.

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Sometimes kids really don’t want to take turns, and that’s okay.

This story captures one of those moments we’ve all seen: when something feels too special to share just yet, and a little time (and a patient friend) makes all the difference.

This story helps toddlers and preschoolers:

• Pause and think before acting (even when they really want the shovel)
• Notice how someone else is feeling, and respond with care
• Understand that it’s okay to say “no”… and just as okay to say “yes” when they’re ready
• See how taking turns can lead to connection and fun

Try bringing up Milo’s story the next time your child doesn’t feel like taking turns.
That simple phrase “Your turn, my turn, let’s take turns!” can make the idea feel a little more playful… and a lot more doable.

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Sometimes, asking for help is the bravest thing a kid can do.
And sometimes, being the helper brings the biggest smile.

This story is full of connection, fun, and moments that feel so familiar, like trying to zip a jacket, pretending to be butterflies, and figuring something out together with a friend.

It gives toddlers and preschoolers a fun way to:

• Learn that it’s okay to ask when something feels tricky
• Notice when someone else might need a hand
• Feel proud of helping and working together as a team
• See that helping can be big or small, and it all matters

You’ll hear them say: “I can help, you can too! Helping’s what we do!”
Try it out the next time your child offers to help, or needs a little help themselves. These little phrases tend to stick in the best way!

☀️ Explore more at storytimeexplorers.com

Hi! I’m so glad you’re here.

Storytime Explorers is a podcast full of short, thoughtful stories for toddlers, preschoolers, and the grown-ups who love them. I started telling stories during quiet moments with my own kids, and I saw how much they helped. Whether it was calming big feelings, making sense of something tricky, or just adding a little joy to the day.

In each episode, you’ll meet kind animal characters as they explore emotions, transitions, and everyday adventures.

These stories are playful, simple, and full of heart. They’re here to support emotional growth, spark imagination, and give your child something they can carry with them–even after the story ends.

Thank you for being here. I hope these stories bring a little calm, a little joy, and a little more connection to your day.