DjamgaMind Kids
DjamgaMind KidsAll bedtime stories

The Cicada and the Ant

Free · Ages 4–8 · About 2 minutes to read aloud · Also available in French
The Cicada and the Ant

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The Cicada and the Ant:

Once upon a time, in a sunny meadow, lived a carefree Cicada who sang all summer long. Her sweet melody resonated across the fields, bringing joy to all who heard it. However, the Cicada, absorbed in her singing, neglected to prepare for winter.

The cold north wind arrived, and the Cicada found herself without food. Hungry and desperate, she decided to ask her neighbor, the Ant, for help. The Ant was known for her hard work and foresight. While the Cicada sang, the Ant had spent the summer storing grains for the cold days.

The Cicada, shivering with cold, knocked on the Ant's door and pleaded, "Dear Ant, could you lend me some grains to survive until spring? I will repay you before the harvest season, animal's honor."

The Ant, raising a skeptical eyebrow, replied, "What did you do all summer?"

The Cicada, ashamed, lowered her eyes and murmured, "I sang, day and night."

"You sang? Well, that's delightful," retorted the Ant with a sly smile. "Now, dance."

The Cicada, realizing the seriousness of her situation, understood that she had to face the consequences of her carelessness. She returned to the meadow, desperately searching for crumbs to survive.

The winter was harsh, and the Cicada learned a valuable lesson. As soon as spring returned, she started working hard, determined never to be caught unprepared again. She still sang, but only after completing her daily tasks.

The Ant observed the Cicada's transformation and, one summer day, offered her an approving smile. They became friends, each learning from the other: the Cicada, the value of work, and the Ant, the joy of music.

Thus, in that sunny meadow, the Cicada and the Ant lived in harmony, sharing their skills and passions, proving that even the greatest differences can lead to beautiful friendships.

Quiz

Questions to talk about afterwards

What did the carefree Cicada do all summer long?
  • She sang sweet melodies.
  • She stored grains for winter.
  • She built a new house.
What was the Ant doing while the Cicada was singing?
  • She was sleeping.
  • She was storing grains for winter.
  • She was dancing.
Why did the Cicada go to the Ant's door when winter arrived?
  • To invite her to sing.
  • To ask her to dance.
  • To ask for some food.
What valuable lesson did the Cicada learn after the harsh winter?
  • The value of hard work.
  • How to sing even louder.
  • How to find new friends quickly.
What happened between the Cicada and the Ant in the end?
  • They never spoke again.
  • They became friends and learned from each other.
  • They had a big argument.
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