Perseverance: Demonstrated by a Small Ant

Perseverance. We've all shown it, as we face seemingly impossible tasks, sometimes reluctantly, but our stick-to-itiveness, that ability to stay with a job no matter how long or unpleasant, is what gives us strength when others have thrown in the towel.
Teaching our children perseverance can be challenging. How do we encourage a child who wants to quit because something feels "too hard"? Author Polly Cameron's, "I Can't," Said the Ant is a fun, easy rhyming story that not only demonstrates perseverance (by the Ant), but teamwork, encouragement and cooperation, too. In the story, a teapot falls of a shelf in the kitchen. The Ant feels incapable of helping the teapot - he is so small and alone, what can he possibly do? The story takes off as kitchen tools, appliances and food offer encouragement, advice, and running commentary regarding the difficult task.

"Pick her up," said the Cup.

"I Can't," said the Ant.

"You can!" said the Pan.

 "Please try," said the Pie.

 "What a scrape," said the Grape

"Co-operate", said the Plate.

 "Form a battalion!", said the Scallion.


With the help of other ants and a couple of spiders, the Teapot is hoisted back up on the counter and saved. "What a relief," said the Beef - a feeling we all share when the task is accomplished.

Sadly, "I Can't," Said the Ant is no longer in print, but gently used copies are available on Amazon, and there's always hope of finding it at your local public library. You and your child will love it.

Author Polly Cameron's (1928-2000) other titles include "The Green Machine", and "The Cat Who Thought He Was a Tiger".

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