Last Place Lexi
What’s inside...
What happens when the girl with BIG dreams ends up in last place? Lexi Lexington is an enthusiastic and determined girl, but things just aren’t going her way. She is not happy when she loses a soccer game and gets a bad grade on an assignment in school. As her day continues and the list of disappointments increases, how will Lexi overcome her obstacles? Will she keep getting discouraged? Or will she learn valuable lessons about trying her best and never giving up? If you’re looking for a book to teach children to learn from their mistakes, not worry as much, and the importance of effort and perseverance - this book is for you! From the perspective of a mom and an educator, kids are reminded that believing in themselves is what matters the most.
Age
5-10
Length
39 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Lexi feels like she is always in last place? Have you ever felt similar, and what did you do?
How do Lexi's friends support her throughout the story? How important is it to have supportive friends?
What are some ways Lexi could improve her confidence? Can you think of times when you felt more confident?
What lessons did you learn from Lexi's experiences? How can you apply them to your own life?
How do you think the story would change if Lexi won first place? Would she learn the same lessons?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening to understand your child’s perspective and relate it to Lexi's experiences in the book.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, emphasizing there are no right or wrong answers.
Highlight the importance of perseverance and self-acceptance, and ask your child to think of personal instances where they demonstrated these qualities.
Discuss the value of friendship and support systems, prompting your child to share stories of when friends or family have helped them overcome challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Lexi consistently faces setbacks and challenges but never gives up, showing perseverance and determination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to keep trying and not be disheartened by failures, applying this resilience to schoolwork, sports, and personal goals.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: Lexi learns the importance of working with others to achieve a common goal, understanding that teamwork can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to collaborate with their peers in group projects or sports, enhancing their social and cooperative skills.
Example Lesson: Accepting and learning from criticism
Explanation: Throughout the story, Lexi receives constructive feedback and learns to use it to improve her skills rather than being discouraged.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by accepting feedback from teachers, parents, and friends to improve their abilities and behaviors.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance and confidence
Explanation: Lexi’s journey leads her to appreciate her own unique skills and qualities, fostering a sense of self-worth and confidence.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their individuality and gain confidence in their abilities, helping them face new challenges more boldly.