A heartwarming video captures a young elephant learning to cross a stream, aided by his patient mother.

The baby elephant, about the size of a German shepherd, struggles to navigate the narrow, muddy waterway as he travels with his herd.

Watch the video at the end.

The herd, consisting of around ten elephants, including adults and juveniles, crosses the stream effortlessly. Despite the shallow depth, the young elephant hesitates and repeatedly turns back.

His mother stays by his side, offering encouragement and support. Though she could easily cross the creek alone, she remains beside her calf, understanding that he needs to become accustomed to crossing streams and rivers.

The mother gently nudges her baby but faces a familiar challenge: a stubborn child hesitant to face a new experience.

The baby’s reluctance could stem from fear of the water or a preference for staying on the current side of the stream.

This moment highlights the universal experience of guiding young people through their fears.

In the wild, elephants encounter more challenging crossings. In 2014, a herd in Kenya faced a dangerous situation when a young elephant was swept away by the Ewaso Nyiro River and pinned against rocks.

Elephants that had already crossed the river came together to rescue the stranded calf, demonstrating their strong social bonds and protective nature.

Back to the video, the mother elephant shows remarkable patience, never forcing her calf but gently encouraging him.

Her calm demeanor ensures she supports him without frustration or anger.

Eventually, after a long struggle, the young elephant crosses the stream. The footage shifts angles, capturing only parts of the scene as Elena Silina, the filmmaker, had to reposition when the elephants approached.

When the camera returns, the baby elephant is seen crossing the dirt road after navigating the stream.

This touching video entertains and emphasizes the importance of patience and perseverance.

The mother elephant’s refusal to give up on her calf underscores their strong bond and commitment to guiding her young one through challenges.

Elena Silina’s capture of this moment offers a glimpse into the caring nature of elephants and their enduring family ties.