The Hermit Crab

Materials

none

Instructions

1. Read the following action rhyme and model the motions for the
children.
A shy little fellow,
In his shell tucked tight. (wrap arms around self )
He's very, very careful
When he comes out in the light. (step very slowly forward a few steps)
Pick him up and hold him
On your palm; keep it flat! (mimic placing hermit crab on flat palm)
Slowly he'll stick his legs out (stick out one finger of the opposite hand)
And tickle you just like that! (gently rub flat palm with extended finger)
2. Repeat the action rhyme as desired so the children can use the motions
again.
More to do Art: Give each child a seashell (or an outlined picture of one). Encourage
the children to decorate their shells with crayons and glue on sequins, bits
of colored paper, or other decorations. This activity goes well with the book
A House for Hermit Crab.
Science: Bring in a real hermit crab, if possible. Many seaside shops and pet
stores have these very easy-to-care for creatures.