Got a reluctant reader? Remind them—and yourself—that they’re an underdog! Underdogs face challenges and difficulties. They work to overcome all these and even their own personal dislikes to reach their goals. But, become Underdogs when they decide that success is worth the hard work and personal investment. No one succeeds every time or immediately, but Underdogs do what it takes to overcome and thrive.
Learning to read is itself an underdog activity. There might be frustrating setbacks, especially in this everything-digital, everything-should-come-easy world. It takes hard work and comes with its own challenges. The result, though, is great reward!
Reading is an underdog activity.
As parents, we can help our kids understand that most skills are gained through concentrated, long-term effort. Reading is a skill, and therefore, requires being a bit uncomfortable, overcoming obstacles, and continually progressing in the same direction. These truths are good for us as parents to remember, too. Perhaps the most crucial component: no matter the obstacles and opposition, underdogs always have people cheering for them. Parent, don’t underestimate the value of your genuine encouragement. Ultimately, we want our children to succeed in reading and celebrate those victories. Helping your reluctant reader is a great opportunity to model attacking a challenge, working through it, and succeeding. Every small step forward is a victory! Ultimately, if your children are to become true Underdogs, their personal motivation is required. The stronger their internal motivation, the more willing they will be to put aside their fears and discomfort to succeed.
Underdog by Example.
As an encouragement, introduce your reluctant reader to the Underdog concept. Why not use books to do so? Underdog main characters hold universal appeal. We fall in love with characters who stick with challenging tasks, who seem to beat all the odds, who work hard to succeed and overcome. They inspire us! These stories remind us that there’s a journey to victory—and that’s a very important lesson for reluctant readers. Underdogs model the determination we need. They give us hope. We carry these ideas with us long after we’re done reading the story. Can you think of some? I still remember those I read as a child: Little Engine that Could or The Tortoise and the Hare. I’m reminded of these when I’m discouraged or tired of working hard. Underdogs remind us that the end goal is so worth it!
The underdog is also a very American icon: the “little guy” overcoming insurmountable odds. You’ll commonly find this plotline in our fiction and nonfiction. The underdog theme is partially why we enjoy stories of Abraham Lincoln or Ruby Bridges. Biographies or fictional accounts of real people who are or have faced difficulties remind us that we’re not in our challenge alone. Additionally, it’s helpful to introduce individuals who have struggled with reading or learning and have overcome, such as Helen Keller or Temple Grandin. Such people are role models for both parent and child.
Don’t lose hope! Your child can do this! The rewards of reading are worth it. With support, gradually attainable goals, and examples of those who’ve paved the way, you and your child can be inspired to fight for the win! ~ Ruth
More “Underdog” Stories:
The Story of Ferdinand • Grades PK-2
She Persisted: Ruby Bridges • Grades 1-4
The Mouse and the Motorcycle • Grades 3-7
Out of Left Field • Grades 3-7
Who Was Nelson Mandela? • Grades 3-7
Banner in the Sky • Grades 5+
