Sometimes, we face challenges, and that’s perfectly okay! Just like crossing a puddle with stepping stones, challenges help us grow stronger. When we break challenges into small steps, it becomes easier to cross the puddle and reach the other side. Each small step is a stone that helps guide you through tough times and helps your magic garden flourish.

Activity

1. Identify Your Challenge
   • Think of a challenge you’re facing, like learning something new or being brave in a situation. Imagine this challenge as a puddle you need to cross.
2. Create Your Stepping Stones
   • Break your challenge into smaller steps. Each step is a stepping stone that helps you cross the puddle. For example, if your challenge is making a new friend, the stepping stones could be: saying hello, asking a question, and inviting them to play.
3. Set Milestones
   • Each stepping stone is a mini-goal. Set milestones, like “I will say hello to one new person each day this week.” These milestones are important because they show you’re making progress and help you feel excited about moving forward.
4. Step on Each Stone
   • As you complete each small step, imagine you’re stepping to the next stone across the puddle. Focus on one stone at a time, and soon you’ll find yourself halfway across, making progress with your challenge.
5. Reflect on Each Step
   • After each stepping stone, pause and think, “What did I learn from this step?” or “How did this step help me get closer to the other side of the puddle?” Reflection helps you see how far you’ve come and what you’ve gained from each step.
6. Celebrate Reaching the Other Side
   • Once you’ve crossed all the stepping stones and overcome your challenge, celebrate! You’ve made it across the puddle, and now your magic garden is stronger. Each challenge you face makes you grow, just like the flowers and trees in your garden.

By using the stepping stones to cross your puddle, you’ll discover that every small step counts, and even the toughest challenges can be overcome, helping your magic garden bloom brighter every time!