Sounds like a wonderful opportunity to explore nature, empathy and sustainability! First, ask yourself why this particular child might be acting this way. Is it fear, interest or perhaps a growing understanding of other life forms?
Use this to guide your response. Here are some ideas:
- Start a bug watching club.
Explore your playground or local area while modelling respectful observation. Speak about the bug’s home’, lifecycle and community. Explain how insects are a vital part of nature. If your budget allows, you could even visit a local zoo or museum, or have a mobile zoo come to your service. - Be a bookworm.
Reach for the many great examples of insects in children’s literature to give bugs an ‘identity’. Children could even create, write and illustrate their own stories about the bugs they’ve encountered. - Use play.
Try drawing, photographing or sculpting bugs. Some children might enjoy creating scrap books of their observations or making habitat dioramas. Others might get more out of imaginary play by dressing up as caterpillars, making blanket cocoons and emerging as butterflies.
Sharon Goodwin
Professional Support Consultant, It Takes A Village
Got a question about behaviours that challenge you? Members can call our experienced consultants at any time for free confidential phone advice on (03) 9486 3455.
