First off, boy mom here. 🙋♀️ If you’re a boy mom chances are you do gross, nasty, and dirty often. Poop and farts are a daily thing. However, you may still be uncomfortable with bugs. My brothers taught me pretty early how to deal with bugs and even enjoy playing with them (sometimes). Here are some ways to help with your son’s investigation without screaming and running the other way.
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How do you investigate something you don’t like?
The first step in your investigating is knowing about what you’re checking out. An anthill is a very different experience then picking up a worm, or wondering where the spider went if it escaped the bug cage.
Set rules on where your child can play with different bugs. Maybe only outside or only in the bug catcher inside. Only 2 bugs at a time. Only observe spiders, don’t capture them.
Where can you get books to help with your bug investigations?
I love giant picture books. You can see all the details without getting up close and personal with the real thing. Grab one at the local library or pick one of these ones up on Amazon (affiliate).
You can learn all kinds of things from these books. You might even find some bugs you really like. Did you know that dragonflies stay in the same place all their lives and eat mosquitoes? They are one of my favorite types of bugs.
Use them one bug at a time or just check out the pictures and read about the ones you find interesting.
Related Post: BUG-THEMED BIRTHDAY PARTY
How to say no when they play with gross bugs?
Don’t be afraid to say no to the gross stuff. That’s what dads, uncles, and grandpas are for. Just remember if you find it gross, it may end up in your hands, purse, or on your plate if you’re not careful.
You don’t have to touch the bugs you find gross. If you’re up for it despite it being gross you should invest in a bug kit. Or a solid jar. Grab one at the dollar store over the summer or online (affiliate).
How to get over your fears and just have fun.
Pick your favorite insect and teach your son about it. If you pick your favorite it should be more relaxing and natural.
Try a less awful bug after that. Remember your child is learning. Focus on that instead of the bug itself.
Here’s a few less awful bugs to try studying.
- Dragonfly
- Praying mantis
- Ants
- Bees
- Ladybug
- Caterpillar
- Walking stick
If you’d rather do fake bugs you can find them at a lot of different stores in the toy section. Or you can grab one of these ones (affiliate).
How to teach about bugs without getting your hands dirty.
I hope you’ve found some ways to check out the bugs without freaking out. If you’d like my free workbook just click and leave me your email address. Of course, if you have already joined my email list, you can grab it in the secret freebie page available to subscribers.
This is a great topic! I am a boy mom who has not yet reached this stage and I can not necessarily say that I am looking forward to it! LOL! I will remember this advice whenever it is my turn so thank you!
It’s a fun time and so much exploration in something so simple. But it can be really challenging if you don’t like bugs. Definitely grab the free workbook when the time comes. 🙂