Once upon a time
The Tortoise and the Geese
Jataka · retold for families
About 3 min read aloud · For grown-ups and children together
Two geese visited their tortoise friend each year. When his pond shrank, they offered to fly him to cool water.
“Hold this stick firmly in your teeth,” they warned. “If you talk, you fall.”
Villagers cheered below. The tortoise nearly answered — remembered — and stayed mute until they landed on a lily pad.
He bowed to both geese. “Your friendship is steadier than my pride.”
The pond rippled with frogs. Quiet saved the day.
Classic tale retold by IRA Creations for screen-free bedtime. After the story, try a quiet craft — our painting kits or free colouring sheets.