Once upon a time, on a bright sunny day, a little ant was wandering near a sparkling river. As he walked along the edge, he lost his balance and fell into the water! Panic set in as he struggled to stay afloat, kicking his tiny legs frantically.

Just then, a gentle dove perched on a nearby branch noticed the ant’s plight. Without a moment’s hesitation, she picked up a large green leaf and dropped it into the water. The leaf floated right next to the ant, and he quickly climbed onto it, grateful for the dove’s kindness.

After a while, the ant regained his strength and swam safely to the riverbank. The dove watched him from above, feeling happy that she could help.

Later that day, as the dove was peacefully resting in her nest, she spotted a hunter sneaking up with a bow and arrow, aiming right at her! The dove’s heart raced as she realized she was in danger.

In a flash, the ant remembered how the dove had saved him earlier. Without thinking twice, he scurried over to the hunter and bit him sharply on the leg. The hunter yelped in surprise, losing his balance and dropping his bow.

Seizing the chance, the dove took flight, soaring high above the trees, safe from harm.

Both the ant and the dove realized that their good deeds towards one another had created a bond of friendship. They learned that when you help others, it often comes back to help you in return.

Moral:

One good deed deserves another.

Additional Lessons:

Kindness: The dove’s selfless act of saving the ant and the ant’s later rescue of the dove highlight the importance of showing kindness to others.
Gratitude: The ant’s actions demonstrate gratitude for the dove’s earlier kindness.
Goodness: The mutual acts of goodness between the two characters emphasize the rewards of helping others and doing what’s right.

Parenting Tip: Discuss with your child how even small actions of kindness can make a big difference. Highlight the importance of gratitude and returning favors when possible.

Fun Questions For Curious Kids

What did the dove do to help the ant?
How did the ant save the dove?
Why do you think the dove decided to help the ant?
What might have happened if the ant didn’t return the favor?
Can you think of a time when someone helped you? How did it feel?
Why is it important to help others, even if they’re small like the ant?
What would you do if you saw someone who needed help?
What do you think the ant and the dove learned from their experience?

Did You Know? Fun Facts About Ants, Doves, and Kindness!

Despite their tiny size, ants can carry items 50 times their body weight! That’s like a human lifting a car!
Across cultures, doves are seen as symbols of love, kindness, and harmony.
Ants live in colonies and work together to gather food, build nests, and protect their community.
Doves have excellent navigation. They can find their way home from long distances, even in unfamiliar places.
Some dove species can fly up to 500 miles in a single day!
Scientists have found that helping others releases “feel-good” hormones in our brains, making us feel happier.
Ants live in highly organized colonies where every ant has a specific job, like a builder, soldier, or food gatherer.
Doves have excellent vision. They can see ultraviolet light, which humans can’t detect.

Download Free Coloring Pages Related To This Story

Bring the story to life with coloring pages designed to spark creativity and make story time even more fun. Coloring helps kids express their creativity, improve focus, and reinforce the story’s themes in a fun, engaging way. After reading together, let them bring the story to life with colors!

Click on any of the free coloring pages below to download or print it!

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The Ant and the Dove