Potter & Papa Otter Cross the River

Potter the Otter and Papa Otter set off on an adventure to see beautiful flowers growing on the other side of a wide river. But when Potter sees how far he has to swim, he feels nervous and unsure if he can make it.

With Papa Otter cheering him on from nearby, Potter learns an important lesson: sometimes the people who love us most can't do hard things for us—but they can believe in us every step of the way.

As Potter repeats the encouraging words, "I can do hard things, yes it's true. One small paddle, and then two," he finds the courage to keep going, even when the water feels cold and the journey seems difficult.

This heartwarming story celebrates resilience, confidence, and the power of believing in yourself. Young listeners will learn that big challenges can be overcome one small step—or paddle—at a time.

Themes: Courage, perseverance, independence, growth mindset, and supportive caregiving.

Learn more about Potter the Otter and find free resources at PotterTheOtter.org.

Transcript

SPEAKER_00 0:04

Hi friends, welcome to PotterPod! Songs and Stories with Putter the Otter! That's me! I'm so happy you're here! Together we'll talk, read, and sing! All about learning healthy habits! Because when we're little, our brains are growing super fast! And all along the way, my friends at first five seconds of Clitter County are here to help too. They make sure kids and families get a strong start. You can find books, resources, and fun freebies at potterthe.org. And don't forget to follow us. Thank you for being my friend. Let's dive in.

SPEAKER_01 0:45

Potter and Papa Otter crossed the river. By First Five Santa Clara County. One sunny day by a river so blue, Potter the Otter and Papa had some exploring to do. They walked by the water and stopped with a grin. Look at those flowers! Let's go see them. Potter looked over from shore to shore. The river seemed wider than ever before. His smile grew small. His ears drooped too. What if I can't make it across the river with you? Papa Otter sat down and smiled at his son. You can do hard things. Just believe, little one. Potter took a breath and looked at the view. He was nervous and scared to do something new. I can do hard things. Yes, it's true. One small paddle, and then two. Potter stepped in with a splash and a hop. The water felt chilly and made his heart flop. It's cold! He squeaked. I don't know what to do. Papa Otter yelled out, I believe in you! Potter took a breath and counted. One, two. I can do hard things. Yes, it's true. One small paddle, and then two. He paddled a little, then paddled some more. But soon he felt nervous, so far from the shore. Papa Otter! he called. Can you carry me through? I think that's what I'd rather you do. Papa Otter swam closer and gave him a squeeze. I'd love to help, little one. If you please. But if I carry you all the way through, you'll never discover what hard things you can do. Potter looked down at the water anew. Do you really think I can do it too? Papa smiled wide. You can do hard things. Yes, it's true. One small paddle, and then two. He paddled past lilies. He paddled past reeds. He paddled with courage, and he started to speed. The river felt smaller. The flowers in view, one small paddle, and then two. He made a big splash and one final push. Then onto the shoreline he climbed with a whoosh. I did it. He shouted. I really swam through. Papa cheered loudly. I'm so proud of you. Potter the Otter lifted his head. He stood tall and smiled when he said, I can do hard things. Yes, it's true. I took lots of paddles. Not just two. The flowers all danced as the warm breezes blew. The river kept singing its swishy swish tune. And Potter learned something important and true. The people who love you may not carry you through. But they'll stand right beside you, believing in you. You can do hard things. That is true. Thank you for joining us for Storytime today. Follow Potter Pod, Songs and Stories with Potter the Otter, and find free resources like books, activities, and videos at pottertheotter.org. See you next time.