The Quiet Table
Fifi sees her mom is busy and decides to help in a quiet way.
Fifi and Momo walked into the kitchen. Mom was stirring a pot, the phone was ringing, and a towel slipped to the floor.
Momo whispered, 'Why does your mom look like a spinning top?' 'She’s got a lot to do, ' Fifi said. 'Maybe we can help.'
Fifi called out, 'Mom, can I set the table?' Mom paused. 'That would be nice, but I haven’t shown you where the plates are.' Fifi pointed to a cupboard. 'I think they’re in there.' She opened it and found a stack of bowls. 'Not quite, ' she giggled.
Momo trotted over, picked up a napkin with his mouth, and then let out a tiny sneeze. The napkins flew up like little birds! Fifi laughed and gently put the plates and napkins in their places.
When Mom came back, the table was set. The forks were a little crooked, but the napkins lay flat. Mom sat down and smiled. 'You did this all by yourselves?' Fifi nodded.
Mom pulled Fifi onto her lap. Momo curled up at their feet, his tail swishing happily. Fifi felt a warm, quiet gladness as Mom held her tight.
This English moral short story was checked for clear language, age-appropriate content, and a lesson that follows naturally from the story.