Fun activity for kids on hike: A Bug’s Life

If he turned over this log, what would you find?
Photo courtesy of Peter Griffin.

Generally, exploring and discovery is enough for kids, but sometimes even they can grow bored with that and become restless. Remember that they naturally have shorter attention spans than adults.

Fortunately, there are lots of tried and true activities you can do on the trail that’ll keep kids from getting bored. Among them is A Bug’s Life.

Turn over a decomposing log or dig up some dirt in a wet part of the trail and examine the bugs living there. This is a great opportunity to teach kids about the important role insects play and cycles in nature. Or you might try to figure out what makes an insect an insect – after all, not all bugs are insects! A magnifying glass helps children better see the little critters. Remember to replace the log and dirt when done looking. Also, beware that some children may be a little squeamish with what they see.

Materials: Spade, magnifying glass (both optional).

Ages: 4 and up.

Learn about more than a hundred other hiking diversions for kids in Hikes with Tykes: Games and Activities.