Buggin’

By Shelly Bokman



Kids love bugs. If your youngsters are into insects, you can encourage their curiosity, and sharpen their observational skills, with one of these fun projects:

Bug House

Take a clean, empty milk jug and cut big windows in each side. Your child can use a marker and decorate the remaining parts of the “house.” Place the cut-out bottle into a stocking, carefully capture a few insects, and then tie the open end at the top. Encourage your budding entomologist to put a few leaves or small pieces of fruit in as well, just to see what the insects will do. Release the insects at the end of the day.

Bug Lab

Set up a bug lab for your little scientist! Give them some white lab coats (men's oxford shirts work well) and a microscope (toy stores or school supply stores carry inexpensive plastic ones for kids). A magnifying glass (plastic ones are also available), plastic bugs, bug jars, a clip board with note paper, and bug identification posters will complete your “lab.” Encourage your child to sort the plastic bugs by size or color. This is also a great opportunity to practice counting.

You’ll be amazed at how much fun kids have learning while they get up-close and personal with their little six-legged friends.