When Nobody’s Watching: Matilda and Her Cookie

Matilda and her sister Madison sneak a few cookies from the pantry — ones they baked together — even though Mum had asked them to wait. No one sees. No one gets in trouble. But later that night, Matilda feels the quiet weight of her decision. 

This gentle story explores the power of integrity, what it feels like to choose wrong, and how to become the kind of person you — and others — can trust. A calm, thoughtful reflection for girls learning to grow in honesty and character.

Parent Conversation Guide
Why This Episode Matters:
This story helps girls process the quiet inner conflict of making a wrong choice — especially when no one is watching and no one finds out. It affirms that those uneasy feelings are not a sign of failure, but a sign of growth. Matilda’s story gives children a safe way to explore conscience, integrity, and how to take steps toward becoming trustworthy and honest people.

Themes to Explore Together:

• What is integrity, and why does it matter?
• How do our choices shape who we’re becoming?
• Why do we sometimes make the wrong decision, even when we know better?
• What does it look like to grow from a mistake without shame?
  
  

Questions to Ask:

• “Have you ever done something you weren’t supposed to, even if no one knew?”
• “What helped Matilda realise she wasn’t proud of her choice?”
• “What do you think you’d do next time if you were in her shoes?”
• “How do we know when something just doesn’t sit right inside us?”
  
  

Helpful Phrases to Try:

• “You don’t have to be perfect to grow.”
• “It’s brave to admit when something wasn’t right.”
• “Even mistakes can help shape you into someone strong.”
• “Doing what’s right when no one is watching — that’s real strength.”
  
  

Model It:
Let your child see your own moments of reflection:
“I wish I’d handled that differently. Next time, I want to pause and think more.”
This models that self-awareness and change are part of maturity — not something to hide from.

💛 Enjoying the podcast? Support the show and help Laura keep creating free resources for mums and daughters by “buying me a coffee” buymeacoffee.com/everwonder.

OR 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.

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

📄 Fill out our Parent Feedback & Story Ideas Survey to share your experience and show suggestions.

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.