We're Going on a Crab Hunt
on Goodreads (18)
What’s inside...
'We're Going on a Crab Hunt' is a children's picture book that leads readers through the exciting and fast-paced experience of searching for crabs -- and the wonder of being in nature on the beach under the moonlight. If you are looking to re-live past beach memories or to get excited to make new ones, this book is for you (or your children, grandchildren, or other special young people in your life!). Through the story’s vibrant words and pictures, readers are encouraged to have fun and count along with the number of crabs found during the story. The writing style is catered to children ages 1-6 but the book is fun for all ages of 'beach people.' The story was inspired by 'chase and release' style 'crab hunts' that are a nighttime pastime for children and families along the Eastern coast of the United States of America, as well as in other locations. Tips at the end of the book encourage readers who may want to go on a real-life nighttime crab search to do so responsibly and kindly. These guidelines inspire readers to appreciate the unique characteristics of sand crabs and to act with respect to these animals, other animals, and the general ecosystem. The book features colorful and diverse illustrations of children, seascapes, and crabs in a style inspired by the post-impressionism art period of the late 19th century.
Discussion points
What do you think the crabs felt when they were being chased? How would you feel?
Why do you think the children wanted to go on a crab hunt? What adventure would you like to go on?
How did the setting of the beach make the crab hunt more exciting? What is your favorite part about visiting the beach?
What can we learn from the way the children worked together during the crab hunt?
If you could speak to the crabs, what would you say to them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story by asking what they would do if they were on a crab hunt.
Discuss the emotions of the characters and the crabs to develop empathy and understanding of perspectives.
Prompt your child to describe the beach setting and relate it to any personal experiences they've had at a beach or during a similar adventure.
Highlight the teamwork demonstrated by the children in the book, and relate it to the importance of cooperation in real-life activities.
Utilize the illustrations in the book to ask your child to describe what they see and help them connect the visual elements to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'We're Going on a Crab Hunt,' the characters must work together to navigate the beach and find crabs, showcasing the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, which is applicable in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The story presents various challenges that the characters must think through and solve, such as figuring out where crabs might be hiding.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and solve problems they encounter in their daily activities, from puzzles to disagreements with peers.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The hunt for crabs ignites curiosity and encourages exploration of the natural world.
Real-World Application: Fosters a love for nature and exploring unknown environments, teaching children to embrace new experiences.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, the characters face setbacks but continue their search, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to persevere in their endeavors despite difficulties, whether in learning new skills or facing personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The book shows characters interacting with the beach environment in a respectful way, promoting environmental consciousness.
Real-World Application: Instills in children the importance of caring for their surroundings and the wildlife they encounter in everyday life.