I acquired a raccoon puppet (actually it’s a raccoon in a trash can, made by Folkmanis) some years ago and just decided to give him a little song. The kids LOVE it! The raccoon stays in his trash can until I sing the “coon” syllable of raccoon, then pops out like a Jack-in-the-box. They squeal and giggle every time it happens which makes it irresistible for all of us!

If you’d like to use this puppet, just Google “Raccoon in garbage can puppet,” and you’ll see lots of sites that sell them. Another option would just be a raccoon puppet that pops out of a paper bag or box. Still another option is making a paper raccoon stick puppet and having him come out of a paper bag or paper garbage can. You can sing the song without props, but the element of surprise and the children’s reaction is well worth the extra effort!

TOPICS TO DISCUSS:

• Here's a good WEBSITE with interesting facts about raccoons.

• Use with another Song of the Month, "Nocturnal Animals".

I'm A Raccoon

1.  I’m a raccoon, I’m a raccoon, ramblin’ around in the night
I’m a raccoon, I’m a raccoon, you can see me if the moon is bright
I’ve got rings on my tail, a mask on my eyes
If you see me at night you might be surprised
Oh I’m a raccoon, I’m a raccoon, ramblin’ around in the night

2.  I’m a raccoon, I’m a raccoon, you better cover up your trash
I’m a raccoon, I’m a raccoon, If you don't I'm gonna steal your stash
I’ve got rings on my tail, a mask on my eyes
If you see me at night you might be surprised
Oh I’m a raccoon, I’m a raccoon, I ramblin’ around in the night.

Below is a video of me performing this at a local pre-school.
(Be sure and click the "stop" control button at the top of this page first.)