Carly the Cub Learns to Use Her Words - A Children's Story

Carly the Cub Learns to Use Her Words

By Bill Conley, America’s Favorite Children’s Storyteller

Moral to the Story:
Sometimes we feel sad, frustrated, or tired and don’t know how to express it. Crying is natural, but as we grow, we learn to speak what we feel. Parents, grandparents, and caregivers want to help, but they can’t guess everything. Using our words helps others understand what we need or want. Even simple words like “hungry,” “tired,” or “help” can make a big difference. Speaking calmly instead of whining or crying shows you’re growing up. Feelings are okay, and words are the bridge to sharing them with others.
When you learn to use your words, you help the people who love you help you better.

Carly the Cub was a sweet little bear who lived deep in the cozy corners of Pinewood Forest. She had big, curious eyes, soft golden fur, and a growl so small it sounded more like a squeak. Carly loved to explore, play, and cuddle with her mama and papa. But Carly was still learning how to express herself, and when she felt frustrated, she often cried.

One morning, Carly woke up grumpy. Her blanket had twisted in the night, and her favorite stuffed honeybee was missing from the bed. She rubbed her eyes and let out a loud wail.

“Mamaaaa!” she cried.

Mama Bear rushed in, her eyes wide. “What is it, sweetheart?”

But Carly just cried harder, kicking her feet and flopping around. Mama Bear gently picked her up and rocked her in her arms.

“Carly, I want to help, but I don’t know what’s wrong. Can you use your words, honey?”

Carly sniffled, rubbed her eyes, and mumbled, “Bee... gone.”

Mama Bear smiled and looked around. “Ah! Your stuffed honeybee is under the pillow. See? You did it! You used your words!”

Carly gave a big grin and hugged her bee tightly. “Bee!” she shouted joyfully.

Later that day, Carly was playing with her cousin Benny the Bunny. Benny accidentally bumped into Carly and knocked over her tower of pinecones. Carly’s eyes filled with tears, and a loud wail followed.

Benny jumped back, startled. “I didn’t mean to!”

Papa Bear, who was nearby raking leaves, walked over. “Carly, are you hurt?”

Carly didn’t answer. She just cried louder and stomped her paws.

Papa knelt beside her. “Carly, I can tell something upset you. Can you stop for a moment and use your words? What happened?”

Carly took a deep breath. “Benny... broke... tower!”

“Ohhh,” Papa said kindly. “That must’ve been frustrating. But remember, Benny didn’t mean to. Maybe you two can rebuild it together?”

Benny’s ears perked up. “I’ll help! I’m sorry, Carly.”

Carly looked at him and nodded. “Okay.”

From that moment on, Carly started trying harder to use her words.

One afternoon, she felt hungry but wasn’t sure what she wanted. She tugged at Mama’s apron and began to cry.

Mama knelt down. “What is it, Carly?”

Carly paused, wiped her tears, and thought hard. “Hungry,” she whispered.

Mama smiled. “There we go! You’re doing so well. Let’s find something yummy.”

They made a snack of blueberries and nuts together, and Carly felt proud.

By the end of the week, Carly was beginning to understand how powerful her words were.

One evening, Mama Bear and Papa Bear were reading when Carly walked up and said clearly, “I’m tired.”

Mama’s heart melted. “Oh, sweetie. Let’s get you to bed.”

As she snuggled in under her blanket, she whispered, “Thank you for helping me use my words.”

Mama kissed her head. “You’re learning so much, little cub. Using your words shows how big you’re getting.”

And from that day on, whenever Carly felt something bubbling inside, she remembered to pause, take a breath, and speak.

Sometimes her words came out slow or quiet, and sometimes they tumbled out fast—but she tried. And trying made all the difference.

Moral to the story poem:
When feelings grow and tears arrive,
Just stop and think before you cry.
Your words can help the world make sense,
They build a bridge, they form a fence.
Say “I’m sad” or “I need rest,”
Use your voice to share your best.
Speak with heart and speak with grace,
And watch a smile light up a face.

Three Thought-Provoking Questions:

1.     Can you think of a time when you felt upset but didn’t know how to say why?

2.     What are some simple words you can use when you need help or feel frustrated?

3.     Why is it important to use your words instead of crying or yelling?