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Bug Project for Kids

Kids always welcome new projects, and creepy, crawly critters can be an educational change of pace after watching television or playing video games. According to the "Journal of Science Teacher Education," it's important to teach children science because it enables them to be life-long learners. Before you run out and adopt a pet tarantula, though, consider arranging bug projects. The next time kids in your care seek an activity, tell them to bug off with one of these suggestions.

Crafts
- Coloring butterflies is a bug project that teaches patterns of different species.
  
  Gather supplies, let kids choose their favorite bug and the creative options are endless. Turn an apron into a ladybug, transform recycled egg cartons into ants or create beautiful butterflies out of coffee filters. Coloring is always a classic option, as well. The website DLKT's Kids has a wide selection of crafts categorized by critter. Not only are bug crafts a fun and enlightening way for children to spend a day, but they can also give away the projects as gifts.
Collecting and Sorting
- Search for bugs anywhere: on a hike, at the park or in your own backyard.
  
  Collecting insects is what many biologists say inspired them to become scientists. Provide kids with a jar to capture bugs in and observe. Poke holes in the lid so the insect can breathe. Ask kids to write observations about different bugs and compare notes. To collect, sort and display bugs, you need a cardboard box, pins and a growing collection of dead insects. If the bug isn't dead when discovered, simply place it in a plastic container and put in the freezer for 48 hours. Encourage kids to write the collection date and location for each bug, and ask them to sort specimens by similar characteristics. Many local 4-H programs and libraries have insect activity guides for your child to learn from, as well.
Bug Homes
- According to the National Wildlife Federation, children today are spending half as much time outside as they did 20 years ago. This has detrimental effects on areas like vision, health and critical thinking. Move activities outdoors by playing a different game of house. Make a bug hotel by stacking pallets in your yard, no more than five high. Fill the gaps with a variety of materials bugs love: leaves, loose bark, straw and more. You'll host invertebrates kids love to observe in no time.
Charades
- An easy, no-frills bug project for kids is a classic game of charades with a twist. Write only insect names on sheets of paper and allow kids to be bitten by the acting bug. Butterflies flap their wings, praying mantises stalk with crimped arms and bees buzz around with stingers. The possibilities are as endless as a child's imagination. Split into teams for some friendly competition or let everyone guess at once.

Insects & Science