There has always been a great fascination with the ant colony. Children especially enjoy watching ants at work. Dealing with the ants also offers great educational value. Here you will get an overview of practical observation options.
Why is watching ants interesting for children?
Watching ants offers children valuable insights into the ecosystem and social structures. You can observe ants in nature or in a terrarium. Most species of ants are harmless as long as they are not disturbed.
Why should children watch ants?
Ants, asbeneficial insects, provide a deep insight into theecosystem The world of ants is interesting for children because they observe the animals that even the smallest animals can take on enormously important tasks. The little crawling toy offers many children certain opportunities for identification. In addition, the ant colony reflects social structures. Most children are quickly fascinated by the division of labor from the worker all the way up to the queen ant. Take advantage of spring for a walk in the forest.
Where can I watch ants with children?
You can either observe ants in the opennatureor settle the animals in aterrarium. The latter gives you the opportunity to observe ants in your living room or classroom. In recent years, many children have even bought ants as pets for their own rooms. If the animals are kept behind glass, you don't have to worry about ants in the house. Taking care of the animals is not that difficult either. Children can do this themselves.
What dangers do ants pose?
Most native ant species do not transmitdiseases, but do secreteformic acid. When the animals are distressed, they can secrete acid. This causes some burning pain on the skin. However, as long as children leave the ants alone while observing them, the animals pose no danger. Only the pharaoh ant can bring germs such as salmonella and streptococci into the house and transmit them.
Tip
Take up children's questions specifically
When observing ants, children usually quickly ask questions. If you take up these, you can encourage children's inquisitiveness and curiosity. If you don't have a direct answer to a question, start looking for an answer together. There are many informative websites, great documentaries and children's books (€11.00 on Amazon) about ants.
