away,JustgoBuddy...

The postman has delivered a letter from Joe’s dad. Joe quietly reads the letter out to Buddy.

Now Buddy understands why Joe is so upset. Joe is missing his dad.

Buddy misses him too.

DearJoe, I’msorryIcan’tbe with you right now. Ithinkaboutyoualthetime. Missyou.Love,Dad.

That morning, Mr. Boyd, Joe’s teacher sees Joe standing on his own in the playground.

Joe usually runs around with his friends.

Not playing footy today, Joe?

Joe’s teacher

Don’t feel like it...

Mr. Boyd suggests that they go and do some drawing in the classroom.

“I’m really missing my dad,” Joe says, “but I don’t want to tell Mum or Gran in case I make them feel sad too.”

Mr. Boyd listens and suggests that Joe gives his lovely picture to his dad.

“I think he’d really like that.” Joe smiles.

Mr. Boyd tells Joe to come and find him or another teacher if ever he feels sad or just needs a chat.