When Hattie agrees to wash both her parents’ cars for $15, she doesn’t expect Mum’s to take so long — or to be so messy. By the time she finishes, she’s exhausted, and Dad tells her she can stop early and still get paid. But after a quiet pause, Hattie chooses to keep going — not for money, but because she wants her word to matter. This thoughtful story helps girls reflect on integrity, follow-through, and the quiet kind of strength that grows when no one’s watching.

Why This Episode Matters:
This episode gently explores what it means to be a person of your word — especially when no one’s watching, and even when it’s hard. Hattie models quiet, steady integrity, helping children see that strength doesn’t always look loud or impressive — sometimes, it looks like following through when you’re tired.

Themes to Explore Together:

• What does it mean to keep your word?
• Why is it hard to finish something once we’re tired or not being watched?
• What does integrity look like in everyday life?
• How can we be faithful in the little things?

Questions to Ask:

• “Have you ever wanted to quit something halfway through?”
• “What helped Hattie decide to keep going?”
• “How do you feel when someone follows through on what they said?”
• “What do you think it means when people say your word matters?”
  
  

Helpful Phrases to Try:

• “You said yes — let’s finish this strong.”
• “It’s okay to be tired, but I see your effort.”
• “You don’t need applause to do good work.”
• “Doing what’s right builds strength on the inside.”
  
  
  

Model It:
Let your child see you follow through, even when it’s inconvenient:
“I promised I’d take out the rubbish — and I’m doing it now, even though I’m tired. I want my word to mean something too.”

Give your child a challenging task - perhaps one you think may be out of reach for them. Accomplishing it will give them a sense of pride, independence and capability. If it is too hard - perfect! What a great opportunity to teach problem solving skills, even if this means finding someone who can help with a solution. Give them ownership of the process, even if you are a tool they can employ.   

💛 If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review. It is so encouraging hearing how your daughter is growing, learning and connecting with those around her.

It helps other families find the show and reminds us that these gentle conversations really do matter.

For more information, or to get in touch privately, please head to www.everwonderpodcast.com

Thanks for listening — we’re so glad you’re here.