Nita the Never-Quit Navigator: Exploring the Smart Way Out

Nita was thrilled when she got her very own computer. She imagined all the fun she’d have researching for school, chatting with friends, and learning to type faster than ever. But when her wireless mouse stopped working, Nita gave up immediately. Instead of checking what went wrong, she dashed to borrow her dad’s laptop and left the problem behind. It wasn’t the first time she’d walked away from a challenge. But this time, something changed.

One evening, Nita’s dad told her a story about Richard Turere, a Kenyan boy who refused to give up when lions attacked his family’s cows. Richard tried fire. He tried scarecrows. Nothing worked—until he noticed that lions were afraid of moving lights. That spark of an idea led to a system of blinking lights that now protects farms all over Kenya. Richard’s determination and creativity earned him a scholarship and admiration across the country. Nita was amazed. “He kept trying different things until he solved the problem!” she said.

Motivated by Richard’s story, Nita went back to her own computer. She turned the mouse upside down and discovered something new—it used a battery. She changed it, and… it worked! The mouse came back to life, and so did her confidence. That day, Nita earned a new title: The Never-Quit Navigator because she didn’t give up, she explored her way out. You too can be a Never-Quit Navigator Like Nita.

Here are 6 ways to build problem-solving skills and a “try again” mindset:

1. Pause and Think

Before giving up, ask, “What’s really wrong?” Be calm, be curious.

2. Try One Thing First

Sometimes, one small action—like turning something off and on—solves the issue.

3. Look for Clues

Blinking lights, odd sounds, or settings can point you to the solution.

4. Ask to Learn, Not Just for Help

Don’t just hand over the problem—ask someone to show you how to solve it.

5. Celebrate Tries, Not Just Wins

Every effort you make grows your problem-solving brain. That’s a win in itself!

6. Practice Every Day

Solving problems takes time and effort. Keep trying, keep learning, and it gets easier.

Remember:

Your brain is smart.

Your ideas are powerful.

And YOU can find answers—one step at a time.

Just like Nita the Never-Quit Navigator, you can learn to explore your way through any challenge!

Want more inspiring stories and life skills?

Visit www.lifeskillsafrica.com and start growing confident, capable problem-solvers today.