Jabari Jumps

A boy who's passed his swim test insists he's ready to jump off the diving board, then finds himself stalling with stretches and stories while working up the nerve to actually do it.

For the kid who says they're not scared, then finds every reason to delay the brave thing — this one gets exactly how that feels.

• Big idea: Being brave isn't the absence of nervousness — it's jumping anyway, in your own time.
• Vibes: Warm, patient, quietly funny, full of poolside sunshine.

• are working on facing something that feels scary
• like to stall before trying something new
• respond well to a calm, encouraging parent figure
• enjoy stories about everyday courage

• Feelings & empathy: How do you think Jabari felt when he squeezed his dad's hand at the top of the diving board?
• Story & problem-solving: Why do you think Jabari kept finding reasons to wait before jumping — stretching, thinking of a special jump?
• Real-life connection: Has there ever been something you were nervous to try, even after you'd practiced for it?
• Imagination: What kind of special jump do you think you'd invent if you were standing on that diving board?
• Grown-up connection: What did Jabari's dad do to help him feel ready, even though he didn't rush him?