Kids' Activities With Bugs
Bugs are all around us. They live indoors and out. Exploring the insect world with children gives them a sense of control. You can use the opportunity to identify helpful and harmful insects and teach basic safety. When dealing with live insects, always use caution and watch for any allergic reactions. And keep in mind the words of Congressman Bradley Miller: "Teaching a child not to step on a caterpillar is as valuable to the child as it is to the caterpillar."
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Live Bugs
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Explore the world of live bugs with your child. Check with your local zoo. Many have insect exhibits where you and your child can get up close and personal with a variety of crawling critters. Some zoos have butterfly exhibits that allow visitors to walk through a butterfly habitat. This gives everyone the chance to see butterflies living normal lives in a safe and enclosed space. If there is no zoo nearby, explore the jungle in your own backyard or local park. Arm yourself with a small magnifying glass, and a digital camera. Caution children against picking up "wild bugs" since many have defensive abilities and will sting or bite if handled. Instead, take pictures of the bugs and create a permanent album of critters.
Bug Homes
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Every bug needs a home. A clear plastic jar with holes in the lid makes a great temporary holding facility. The clear sides give an unobstructed view of the tiny animal. But be sure to let the bugs go quickly. Making permanent bug huts together creates memories for the child. Remove the lid of a square wooden or cardboard box. Stand the box on it's side. Stack and glue a variety of natural pieces into the box, filling its interior. Choose items such as pieces of wood, bamboo, twigs or dried gourds and seedpods. Place the box outside in a sheltered area. Leave the box all summer long. In the fall, take the pieces of the box apart and find out how many bugs moved into your house.
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Bug Crafts
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If live bugs creep your child out, make some pretend bugs. Building bugs shows the child basic bug anatomy. Build a giant ant out of three Styrofoam balls painted red or black. Insert pipe cleaners for legs and antennae. Point out the segmented body and the six legs. Discuss the antennae and it's uses. Build a butterfly out of tissue paper and a clothes pin. Show how much larger the wings are than the body. Read the book The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle and discuss the metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly. There are activities that go along with the book that will keep your child entertained and involved for hours.(See resources)
Bug Costumes
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After exploring bugs, dress up like bugs. Cut a strip of construction paper long enough to go around the child's head. Attach pipe cleaners to the sides and add big eyes to the front of the paper headband. Dress up in a black sweat suit for ants or beetles, or green for grasshoppers. Add any embellishments such as spots, stripes or wings.
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References
Resources
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