How can i get a kid to get over their fear of bugs?

Question

They are terrfied of bugs. If a little fly goes by they all freak out and start screaing. Are there any ways to get them over this?

Answer 1

Dont react to it. Passively talk about bugs, and collecting bugs and how cool bugs are.

At some point have a bug hunt by yourself with the kids around you. Theyre curious and will wonder what you've done. You can talk about how cool they are, all the neat things they can do, all the colors, what you might name the bug, that sort of thing.

Children are not born with a sense of real fear, its a learned reaction. They freak out about the bugs because they have learned to. Teach them a new way to react instead.

Answer 2

I second the suggestion that you or someone they trust handle the little creatures and explain that most insects and spiders are not dangerous. Somewhere in the process, they should, of course, be told that some spiders, scorpions, wasps and bees can be troublesome if mistreated, and that it's best to learn to identify them and leave them alone.

If they still think they're creepy, it's because they aren't accustomed to looking at them. You could use the example that all dogs are basically similar, but if they only ever saw one breed of dog, for example golden retrievers, and then saw a chihauhua, they might think it's creepy too.

Answer 3

What about cartoons or books about bugs- like Miss Spider's Sunny Patch or the Hungry Caterpillar? My daughter loves finding bugs because she sees them on these programs. Also maybe it's your attitude towards bugs that may influence them- don't let them see you swatting a bug for instance. If a ladybug comes along, let it crawl on your hand so they know that bugs aren't scary.

Answer 4

How old? My 4 yr old step-daughter is terrified as well. I try to explain to her that they wont hurt her but nothing seem sto work...

Good luck!