Don't Worry, Little Crab: questions to ask and activities to try
Little Crab can't wait to go in the sea, until he sees the waves. Don't Worry, Little Crab is a beautiful book about being scared, taking your time, and trying something new with someone you trust.
What age is it for? Don't Worry, Little Crab is best for ages 2–5. Good for: Being scared to try something new.
Don't Worry, Little Crab (Chris Haughton)
- Age
- 2-5
- Best for
- Being scared to try something new
Read it slowly and let the big waves feel big. Pause when Little Crab stops, and ask what might help him. It's a lovely one before swimming lessons, starting nursery or any new experience.
What it helps with
- Being scared to try something new
- Taking your time to feel brave
- The support of a loved one
- First swimming, first days and new places
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Where were the crabs going?”
- “How did Little Crab feel when he saw the waves?”
- “What did Very Big Crab say?”
- “What helped Little Crab go in?”
- “What is something new you were scared to try?”
- “Who helps you feel brave?”
5-minute activities to try together
Little steps
Pick something your child feels nervous about and break it into three small steps, like Little Crab going in bit by bit.
Wave breathing
Breathe in as a wave rises and out as it falls. Do five slow waves together when something feels scary.
Free printables: Don't Worry, Little Crab worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
Free. We’ll only email you if you tick the box.
More by Chris Haughton: A Bit Lost, Goodnight Everyone, Oh No, George!, Shh! We Have a Plan
If your child liked this, try
A Brave Bear (Sean Taylor and Emily Hughes)
- Best for
- Being brave, and the people who help us
- Age
- 3-6
After the Fall (Dan Santat)
- Best for
- Children who are scared to try again after something went wrong
- Age
- 4-8
The Kissing Hand (Audrey Penn)
- Best for
- Nerves about starting school or being apart
- Age
- 3-6
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.