Perfect for sensory exploration, this passive activity also offers skills like scientific observation, pattern recognition, counting, and vocabulary development. Even better, it’s low-cost and completely engaging!

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Library programming is designed to be fully inclusive. Age limits may be implemented in certain programs to ensure that program content fosters appropriate developmental markers.

Accessibility: The varied textures of the shells make this an excellent activity for patrons with low vision, providing a rich tactile and sensory experience.

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Mode: Passive

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Staff Energy: Low

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Ages: 3-8

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Cost: Low

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Length: n/a

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Ideal Attendance: n/a

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STEAM Practices:

✓ Math (counting, sorting, patterns)

✓ Science (identifying, observing, vocabulary development)

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Tags: low cost, preschool, kids, STEM, nature, passive

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Credit: Kate Davis

Supplies:

(Commonly on-hand supplies are not included in cost breakdown.)

Shells $9.99/50 shells

Tray $1.25

White cardstock or printer paper

Shell identification cards

Optional: Sand

Total: $11.25

Instructions:

Various seashells on a wooden surface, including Egg Cockle, Dog Conch, Nautilus, Rough Scallop, and Mussel.

Fill the tray with shells and sand (if using). Set shell identification cards next to it. Encourage young patrons to explore the shells and try to match them with their identifying cards.

Staff Know-How

Planning, Set Up & Facilitation

Purchase shells, then identify each shell you plan to set out. The shells provided on the shell identification cards are common to many purchased bags of shells, but you may have others. For quick identification, take a photo of unknown shells and upload them to Google Images. In the shell identification card file is a blank sheet of cards where you can add in your own pics and shell names.

Print, cut, and laminate your cards.

Pull books from your collection to display around the tray of shells.