Once upon a time, in a pond near a forest, there lived a Water Strider. He loved to glide on the water and was always happy. One day, a Heron came to the pond to catch some fish. The Water Strider was scared and hid under a lily pad. But then he noticed that the Heron was not eating the fish, but instead was helping them by getting rid of their predators. The Water Strider was so grateful that he made friends with the Heron.

One spring, the Springtails and Whirligig Beetles also arrived at the pond. The Water Strider and Heron helped the new creatures find food and shelter. They all became friends and had many fun adventures together. They explored the pond and the nearby forest, and they played games and had picnics.

The Water Strider, Heron, Springtails, and Whirligig Beetles all lived happily ever after, taking care of each other and enjoying their beautiful home by the pond. The End.

Reflections

1. What was the Water Strider's initial impression of the Heron?
2. Why did the Heron go to the pond?
3. How did the Water Strider and Heron become friends?
4. Who else came to the pond and what were they like?
5. What kind of adventures did the friends have together?