Ana hugged her teddy bear, excited for the sunny park day. Green grass and laughter welcomed her.
She saw the big, yellow slide. It towered like a sunflower. She gulped, feeling small.
Her friend Ben waved from the top. 'It's fun!' he shouted. Ana's feet moved slowly.
The steps were hot from the sun. Ana climbed, each step higher than the last.
She reached the top and saw the park. It looked different, bigger, and exciting.
Ben slid down whooshing! 'Your turn!' he called. But Ana's tummy had butterflies.
She sat down, the slide cool and slippery. She held her teddy tight, closed her eyes.
One, two, three, go! She pushed off. The wind whooshed by, her hair flying.
Faster, faster, then a gentle bump! Ana landed on the ground with a soft thud.
She stood up, her heart racing. 'I did it!' she exclaimed, eyes shining bright.
Ben ran over, high-fived Ana. 'See, it was awesome!' he said, both beaming.
Ana, joyous and brave, looked up at the slide. 'Let's go again!' she cheered.
Reflection Questions