The warm, chocolatey smell filled the kitchen. Emma’s eyes widened as Olivia placed a cookie on a plate. 

“Can I have it now?” Emma asked, reaching eagerly. Olivia smiled. “Let’s wait five minutes. 

The cookie will taste even better!” She turned the timer over, and the sand began to fall. Emma fidgeted, watching the seconds crawl. She glanced at the cookie, then at Olivia, who hummed and waited calmly. 

When the timer dinged, Emma’s grin stretched wide. She bit into the cookie and beamed. “You were right, Mommy. It is better!” Olivia winked. “Good things come to those who wait.”

Waiting & Self-Control 

This story highlights how small acts of waiting teach children that good things often take time.  

Discussion Starters for Parents and Kids  

• How did Emma feel while the timer was running? 
•  Why did the cookie taste better after waiting?  
• Can you think of a time when waiting made something more exciting or special?  
• How can we practice patience in our daily routines?  

Take-Home Idea 

Create a “Patience Challenge.” Use a short timer during fun activities—like waiting a minute before opening a surprise—to help children build the habit of calm, positive waiting.