FamilyAges 3–4 · 5–6Albanian + English + German5 min
Stay Close, Nini!
At the busy, colourful market, Nini forgets what Mum said and wanders off after the balloons. Luckily she knows what to do, and she learns why it’s good to stay close to Mum.
On Saturday morning, Nini went to the market with her mum. The market was full of colours: red apples, round oranges, sweet grapes and flowers everywhere.
1
Mum bent down and spoke softly. “It’s very busy here, Nini. Stay close to me, so we can always see each other. And when we cross the road, hold my hand.” “Okay, Mum!” said Nini.
2
But then Nini spotted a bunch of colourful balloons. “Ooh, how pretty!” Without thinking, she walked towards them: one step, two steps, three steps…
3
When she turned around, Nini couldn’t see her mum anymore. All around her were big baskets and hurrying feet. Her heart began to thump. Then she remembered something Mum had taught her: “If you can’t see me, stand still and call me nice and loud.”
4
Nini stood still and called, “Mum! Mum!” Bleta, who was buzzing above the market, heard her and showed Mum the way. In no time, Mum was there, giving her a big, big hug.
5
“I’m sorry, Mum,” said Nini. “The balloons were so pretty that I forgot to stay close.” Mum smiled. “You did just the right thing when you stood still and called me. Next time you see something you like, tell me, and we’ll go and look at it together.”
6
And that’s just what they did. They went to the balloons together, and Nini chose a red one, as red as she was. “This is Mum’s and Nini’s balloon,” she said happily.
7
At the edge of the market was the road, with cars going by. This time Nini took Mum’s hand all by herself. They waited together for the green light, then crossed slowly, hand in hand. “When I listen to you, Mum,” said Nini, “we’re both calm and happy.”
bleta