Join in on the fun! Three no/low-prep activities you can do with kids.

1. Bug Scavenger Hunt

Plan a bug scavenger hunt in your yard or a nearby park. Use this free Bug Bingo Card or create your own, including common insects like ants, ladybugs, butterflies, beetles, and spiders.

For extra fun, equip the kids with magnifying glasses and bug containers (with ventilation holes) to safely observe their finds. This activity not only makes children excited to explore nature but also helps them learn to identify different insect species and understand their habitats.

2. Build a Bug Hotel

Get crafty and build a bug hotel to attract beneficial insects like bees, ladybugs, and beetles to your garden. Use natural materials such as sticks, leaves, bark, and hollow stems to create small compartments in a wooden frame or an old box. Kids can help gather materials and assemble the hotel, learning about the importance of insects in pollination and pest control. Once the bug hotel is set up, they can observe and document which insects take residence over time.

3. Create an Oasis for Insects

Create a simple insect watering hole to attract and observe insects up close. Use a shallow dish or plate, add a few rocks, shells, gems, or other decorations and then fill it with water. Place it in a shady spot in your garden; colorful flowers around the dish help to attract insects to your space.

This hands-on experience allows children to witness firsthand the habits of insects and teaches them about the vital role insects play in pollination, fostering curiosity and nurtures a sense of responsibility towards preserving their habitats.