Everything for Tiko the Brave Little Crab — activities, printables, and the science behind the story. Read the book, then keep the learning going with these free extras. Ages 3–7.
About the book
Tiko is a tiny crab who walks everywhere sideways and collects shiny shells on the pink sand of Mangrove Bay. When big waves scare him, Mama shows him the sea isn't angry — it's just breathing. A warm 5-minute story about facing fears, with real crab science tucked inside. Read it FREE or get the expanded edition.
Try these activities
- Sideways walk race: crabs walk sideways because of how their legs bend! Have kids try walking sideways across the room — it's harder than it looks.
- Shell sorting: collect shells (or pebbles) and sort by size, color, and pattern — just like Tiko's collection.
- "The sea is breathing" listening game: play ocean wave sounds and have kids breathe in as waves come in, out as they go out. Instant calm-down.
Free printables
- Tiko coloring page — download from our free printables library
- Crab facts flash cards — 6 real crab science facts from the book
The science in this story
Real facts from Tiko's tale: crabs walk sideways due to their leg joints · a crab's shell is its skeleton (exoskeleton) · some crabs "talk" by rubbing their claws · waves are the sea moving energy, not anger. More ocean science in every Bedtime Tale from the Bahamas.
Keep reading
Tiko's story is Book 1 of 20. Continue with Tiko and the Singing Conch, or get all 20 books in the Complete Collection. Love Tiko? Shop Tiko tees for the whole family.