Something unusual happened today—Monkey Lyly, the usually energetic and playful little one, suddenly refused to come out of her room to eat. It was so out of character that even her caregivers were puzzled. Normally, the sound of a spoon tapping a bowl or the crinkle of a snack bag would send Lyly running with excitement. But today? Silence.
Everyone called out to her gently. “Lyly, come on, your favorite fruit is ready!” No response. They peeked into her room, expecting to find her playing or maybe taking a nap—but there she was, sitting in the corner with her arms crossed, facing the wall with a sulky expression.
Something was definitely bothering her.
Earlier that morning, she had tried to join in playtime with the older monkeys, but one of them had unintentionally pushed her aside while scrambling for a toy. Maybe it wasn’t meant to hurt her feelings, but Lyly seemed crushed. She sulked back to her room, dragging her little blanket with her. Since then, she hadn’t made a sound.
The caretakers decided not to force her out. Instead, they placed a small plate of banana slices just outside her door and sat down a few feet away, softly talking to her. “It’s okay, Lyly… You can take your time. We love you.”
After a few long minutes, her little hand slowly peeked around the doorway. She reached out, snatched a banana slice, and retreated again. But soon, her curiosity overcame her pout, and she peeked out with wide, hesitant eyes. One of the staff held out a favorite plush toy and made a silly face.
That did it.
Lyly couldn’t help but giggle, and with one small step after another, she came out—still a little shy, but no longer sad. She sat down quietly and began munching, holding the plushie close.
Everyone breathed a sigh of relief. Whatever it was, she just needed love, patience, and a little banana therapy.
