Ella, a cheerful five-year-old with curly brown hair and a big smile, bounced into the room. She loved her friends, especially Maya and Liam. She always greeted them with warm hugs. "Good morning, friends!" She said with her arms wide open.
Maya, a shy girl with two neat braids, smiled back but took a little step back. Liam, a quiet boy with glasses, adjusted his backpack nervously.
As they approached the swings, Ella leaned in, eager to share her fun ideas. "Let's play a game together!" She suggested, her face very close to Maya.
Maya shifted her feet and looked at Liam for help. Liam softly said, "Maybe we can play while keeping some space between us."
Ella was full of energy, running around and wanting to hug her friends. However, Maya and Liam found it hard to avoid her excitement.
Maya finally spoke up gently. "Ella, we love your hugs, but sometimes we need a little space to be comfy."
Ella stopped and looked surprised. "Oh, I didn't know! I'm sorry if I made you feel uncomfortable!"
Ella watched her friends closely, playing tag while keeping a gentle distance. "Is this better?" She asked, smiling.
Liam nodded with a big grin. "Much better, Ella! Now we can all run and have fun without bumping into each other."
Ella, Maya, and Liam played their favorite games, laughing and running around while respecting each other's space.
When they finished playing, they all sat together on the grass, smiling and feeling happy. Ella smiled at her friends, realizing how much more fun they had when everyone felt comfortable. "Thanks for helping me understand!" She said, giving a little wave instead of a hug.
Ella joined Maya and Liam on the swings, feeling proud of her new understanding. "I’m so glad we're friends!" She said, her smile shining bright.
Maya and Liam smiled back. "Me too, Ella!" Maya said, swinging high into the evening sky.
