William’s Fallen Tower

William puts one more block on his tower. It is nearly as tall as his knee. Lucy watches from the rug. Then the top leans, and the blocks fall.

William shouts. His hands feel tight, and his face feels hot. Mrs Fern moves close. She keeps the space safe and gives him room.

“You worked hard on that tower,” she says. William can sit beside her or stand a little way off. He chooses the rug. She stays nearby without asking him to talk.

After a while, William’s hands loosen. He takes a slow breath. Mrs Fern offers a drink. Lucy waits with a block on the floor beside her.

“Build again?” Lucy asks. William can say yes or no. He wants to try a wide base this time. Mrs Fern helps them find the biggest blocks.

The new tower is shorter and wider. William feels calmer. He was upset when the first tower fell. He had time and help, and now he has another idea.