Emma hesitated at the top of the playground slide. It seemed taller today. 

She gripped the sides tightly.

 “You can do it!” Olivia called, waving with an encouraging smile. 

Emma bit her lip, inching forward. She scooted down, landing with a soft thud in the sand.  “I did it!” she squealed with excitement. 

Olivia scooped her up. “You were so brave!” she whispered into Emma’s ear. The next day, Emma didn’t hesitate. She zoomed down, laughing all the way.

 Each little leap was a step toward bigger adventures, and Mom made sure to celebrate every one, no matter how small.