Leo Joins In: A Story About Social Bravery, Friendship, and Including Others

Joining in can take courage, especially when friends are already laughing and playing.

If you’ve ever watched your child hover nearby, wanting to join but not quite sure how, you’ll recognize Leo in this story. That fluttery mix of excitement and uncertainty is something almost every child experiences. And when they find the courage to ask, or the kindness to invite someone else in, it can turn an ordinary moment into something really special.

This story helps toddlers and preschoolers:

• Recognize that fluttery feeling when they want to join in
• Practice asking to play with kindness and confidence
• Notice when someone else might be hoping for an invitation
• See how inclusion makes playtime warmer, sillier, and more fun for everyone

If your child ever hesitates to join in, or if they’re learning to make space for others, you can borrow Leo’s phrase, “I can join and play too!” to make joining in feel brave and kind.

Follow along @storytimeexplorers for sweet, simple ways to help kids grow through storytelling.

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