Max sprinted across the park, his heart pounding in his chest. His eyes darted frantically from one spot to another, searching for his beloved wooden dinosaur. It was his favorite toy, a constant companion on many adventures, and now it was nowhere to be found. Panic gripped him, tears welling up as he stopped near the sandbox, his breath coming in short, ragged gasps.

Dad approached Max, kneeling down to his level. "Hey buddy, let's take a deep breath together," he said softly, placing a reassuring hand on Max's shoulder. Max, still sniffling, looked up at his father, his blue eyes wide with worry. "In through the nose, out through the mouth," Dad guided, demonstrating the breathing technique. Slowly, Max mirrored his father's actions, feeling the tension begin to ease from his small frame.

Dad smiled at Max, "Now, let's think back to where you last saw your dinosaur," he suggested. Together, they walked hand in hand, retracing Max's steps from the day. They passed the merry-go-round, where Max had spun with friends, and the picnic area where they had shared sandwiches and juice.

Max suddenly stopped, his eyes lighting up with recognition. There, beneath the swing where he and his friends had been playing a game of pretend, was a small wooden figure partially covered in sand. "There it is!" he exclaimed, rushing forward to scoop up his cherished toy.

Max hugged his dinosaur tightly, relief washing over him like a warm wave. Dad ruffled Max's hair affectionately. "See, you found it," he said with a proud smile. Max nodded, grinning up at his father. "Thanks, Dad. I was so scared," he admitted, feeling the last remnants of panic slip away.

Dad squeezed Max's hand gently. "Anytime, buddy. Remember, whenever you feel lost, just breathe and think," he advised. Max nodded, clutching his dinosaur closely, his heart light and full of gratitude. Together, they headed home, the day’s adventure now a cherished memory in Max's heart.