The Ant and the Grasshopper

Quick Answer

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

It ends with a calm, practical lesson and no scary imagery. Great for bedtime conversations about routines, responsibility, and saving a little energy for later.

Story Synopsis

Late in autumn, when the sun still warms the field but the air feels sharp, a family of ants moves quickly and carefully. They dry grains they gathered in summer and tuck them away for the colder days ahead. Their work is steady, shared, and purposeful. Not far away, a grasshopper wanders by, taking his time. He has spent the bright months making music and enjoying the day. He laughs at the ants’ busyness and asks why they don’t simply sing and rest. The ants answer kindly: winter comes, and food won’t appear by itself. When the grasshopper finally feels the first real cold and realizes he has nothing stored, he understands the ants’ quiet wisdom. The field holds a simple lesson—enjoy bright days, but prepare little by little for the days you’ll need what you saved.

Story Excerpt

One bright day in late autumn, the sun still felt warm on the ground, even though the air had a cool edge to it. In a small corner of the field, a family of Ants were bustling about, quick and careful. They spread out little grains they had stored during the summer, letting the sunshine dry them. The Ants worked shoulder to shoulder. Some carried tiny kernels from their store. Others lined them up neatly, as if they were setting out treasures. Now and then an Ant would pause, feel the breeze, and hurry a bit faster, because everyone could tell the colder days were coming. Across the field, a Grasshopper came hopping slowly. He didn’t bounce the way he had in summer. His belly felt empty, and his steps were tired. Tucked under his arm was his fiddle, the same one he had carried for months. He stopped near the Ants and watched them for…

In One Glance