This page focuses on the heart of the story — a young girl whose natural compassion led her to step in when a group of ducklings was left without their mother. When the ducklings became separated and vulnerable, the girl instinctively took on a protective role, guiding them, watching over them, and treating them as if they were her own responsibility. Rather than acting out of excitement or curiosity, she showed patience, gentleness, and care, which earned her the nickname “duck mother.”
Steve Hartman’s CBS News segment highlights how unusual it is to see such emotional maturity in someone so young. The girl didn’t see the ducklings as animals to play with, but as living beings that needed help. Her actions reflected empathy — the ability to understand fear and need, even when it comes from animals. The story emphasizes how kindness can come naturally to children and how compassion does not have to be taught through rules, but can grow from the heart.