Fable
The Hare and the Tortoise
For parents · Patient, steady effort can achieve more than speed alone.
The Hare and the Tortoise
Kindergarten, Grade 1 · Free · Aesop's fable
A speedy hare falls asleep mid-race while a slow tortoise keeps going, the Aesop's fable that shows kids slow and steady wins the race.
The story
Beginning. A Hare was one day making fun of a Tortoise for being so slow upon his feet.
The Challenge. “Wait a bit,” said the Tortoise. “I'll run a race with you, and I'll wager that I win.”
The Course. “Oh, well,” replied the Hare, who was much amused at the idea. “Let's try and see.” And it was soon agreed that the fox should set a course for them, and be the judge.
The Rest. When the time came both started off together. But the Hare was soon so far ahead that he thought he might as well have a rest. So down he lay and fell fast asleep.
The Goal. Meanwhile the Tortoise kept plodding on, and in time reached the goal.
The Winner. At last the Hare woke up with a start, and dashed on at his fastest. But only to find that the Tortoise had already won the race.
Moral
Slow and steady wins the race.