Kids love stories that are fun, exciting, and full of valuable lessons. “The Clever Deer and the Crocodile” is one such timeless folktale that teaches the importance of intelligence, quick thinking, and staying calm in dangerous situations. This story is perfect for bedtime reading, classroom storytelling, or moral education sessions.
The Story: The Clever Deer and the Crocodile
Once upon a time, in a peaceful forest filled with tall trees and colorful flowers, lived a clever deer named Rini. She was known for her quick thinking and calm nature. Near the forest flowed a large river where a hungry crocodile lived. He was always waiting for an opportunity to catch an unsuspecting animal.
The Deer’s Daily Challenge
Every day, Rini needed to cross the river to reach a grassy meadow where the sweetest fruits and leaves grew. But she had to be extremely careful—the crocodile often hid under the water, waiting for a chance to attack.
Still, the clever deer never panicked. She always found a safe way to travel.
The Crocodile’s Trick
One morning, the crocodile decided he would finally catch the deer. He quietly swam closer to the bank and thought:
“Today, the deer will be my meal.”
Rini approached the river but sensed something strange. The water looked unusually still. She had a feeling the crocodile was nearby.
Instead of stepping into the river, she stood at the edge and shouted loudly:
“Mr. Crocodile! The king of the forest has invited all the crocodiles to a feast. How many crocodiles are here in the river today?”
The crocodile, excited by the idea of a feast, quickly lifted his head and said:
“Only one—me!”
That was all Rini needed to hear.
The Deer Outsmarts the Crocodile
Quickly hiding her smile, the deer replied,
“Oh! The king wants to know how many crocodiles live in this river. Please call all your friends and line up so I can count.”
The foolish crocodile agreed. He gathered every crocodile and made them form a line from one side of the river to the other.
Rini gracefully hopped from one crocodile’s back to the next, counting loudly:
“One! Two! Three! Four!”
Before the crocodiles realized what was happening, she reached the other side of the river safely.
Turning back, Rini said with a laugh:
“Thank you for helping me cross the river!”
The crocodiles were left shocked—and embarrassed.
Moral of the Story
Smart thinking can protect you from any danger.
Use your mind, not fear, to solve problems.
Why This Story Is Perfect for Kids
- Encourages quick thinking and problem-solving
- Teaches that intelligence is more powerful than strength
- Helps children understand the importance of staying calm
- Short, fun, and easy to understand