How to Make a Super Simple DIY Bug Catcher for Kids

How to Make a Super Easy DIY Bug Catcher for Kids

If you have a child that LOVES to look at or catch bugs OR if you even just have a child that loves nature, they will love this DIY bug catcher. Plus, it’s super simple!

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Bug Catcher

My kids have a love-hate relationship with bugs. They are super fascinated by them but don’t always want to get near them. A bug catcher is great because they can get close WITHOUT the fear of them.

There are all kinds of different bug catchers out there. You can even get a full kit on Amazon, BUT this one is just super simple, and you can make it with what you most likely already have on hand. You could get a net to catch the bugs. You can find them at Dollar Tree or on Amazon.

Here’s how you can do it.

DIY Bug Catcher for Kids

This activity takes about 5-10 minutes to make and can last for up to hours of playtime. Once you make it, they can play with it independently each day! Cost is anywhere from $2-5 dollars depending on what you have on hand. Great for ages 4-10!

Supplies:

Jar with lid
Knife
Grass, twigs, and sticks
A little net (if you have one)

Instructions:

Poke holes in the lid of the jar. You could also use a piece of mesh in place of the lid. If you don’t have a mason jar, just put a rubber band around the mesh on a container to secure it.

Place grass, twigs, or sticks (or all) into the jar.

Go find some bugs to catch with your net (if you have it) and put them in your jar and cover with the lid.

Some common bugs to try and find:

Ladybugs
Rollie Pollies
Grasshoppers
Beetles
Fireflies
Worms
Spiders (If you’re brave)

Bug Catcher Variations:

The kids could be more creative and paint the lid of their jar or add some decorations to the jar. They just don’t want to cover it up because then they won’t see them.
Make sure your kids know what bugs are good and which aren’t.
Use a stick to catch your bugs instead of a net.
Look up more info about the bugs you catch after you catch them!
Have fun!

If you’re looking for more fun activities, check out The Ultimate Summer Binder for Kids (also great for Spring and Fall) You can buy it digitally in my shop, or a physical copy on Amazon!