Minibeast and bug discovery early years activity

In this activity, children will become little explorers as they go on a minibeast and bug discovery adventure. Using magnifying glasses, they can closely observe the creatures they discover, encouraging curiosity, careful observation and early scientific thinking. The activity also helps children develop an appreciation of the natural world and promotes respect and care for living things.

Learning activities

To explore the natural environment
To observe and identify different minibeasts and bugs
To develop curiosity and respect for living things
To build language skills by describing what children see.

What you'll need

Magnifying glasses
Bug viewers or clear observation pots
Minibeast checklist with pictures
Clipboards and pencils/crayons
Small paintbrushes for gently moving insects
Camera (optional).

Activity guide

Gather the children together and talk about minibeasts.

Ask questions such as:

What bugs have you seen before?
Where do minibeasts like to live?
Why should we be gentle with living creatures?
Show pictures of common minibeasts such as ladybirds, worms, ants, snails, spiders and woodlice

Take the children outdoors on a minibeast hunt.

Encourage them to carefully look under logs, leaves, stones and in grassy areas. Use magnifying glasses to observe any bugs they find
Support children's language by asking questions such as:
What does it look like?
How many legs has it got?
How is it moving?
What colours can you see?
Allow children to tick or mark off minibeasts they discover on their checklist or they could take photographs of them to share later.

Return to the group and discuss what the children found.

You could share the photographs of the minibeasts too. Invite children to share their favourite minibeast and describe what they observed.

Ways you can extend this activity

Children could create minibeast drawings, paintings or models
You could make a bug hotel using natural materials in the garden.

NDNA products to help you with this activity

Disclaimer: Activities with children must always be risk assessed, including for allergies or choking. Children must always have adequate supervision. Resources and materials must always be appropriate for children’s age and stage of development.