The jungle was quiet as the moon began to rise, casting silver light over the treetops. Little Monkey Lala had just finished her evening play—swinging from vines, chasing fireflies, and nibbling on sweet bananas. Her eyelids were heavy, but as she headed toward her cozy leaf bed, she suddenly remembered something important.
My teeth! she thought. Mama Monkey always said, “Clean teeth make a healthy smile.” Usually, Mama had to remind her, but tonight Lala wanted to do it all by herself.
She skipped over to the big coconut shell they used as a sink, picked up her tiny bamboo toothbrush, and dipped it in a cup of fresh spring water. With a big smile, she began brushing—up and down, round and round—just like Mama had taught her. The fresh minty paste made her mouth tingle, and she giggled at the funny foam bubbles.
Mama Monkey peeked in from the doorway, surprised. “Lala, you’re brushing your teeth without me asking?”
Lala nodded proudly. “Yes, Mama! I want my teeth to be shiny and strong like yours.”
When she finished, she rinsed her mouth and flashed a wide, clean grin. “See?” she said, showing her sparkling teeth. Mama’s eyes softened. “I’m proud of you, Lala. Taking care of yourself is a big step.”
Lala climbed into her leafy bed, snuggling under a blanket of soft banana leaves. The gentle sound of the river lulled her toward sleep. Before her eyes closed, she whispered, “Goodnight, Mama. Goodnight, shiny teeth.”
Mama smiled, knowing her little one was growing not just in size, but in good habits too. And under the glowing moon, Monkey Lala drifted into dreams—her smile as bright as the stars.
