Why Teaching Children to Be Kind to Insects Matters More Than Ever

As adults, we often hear about the importance of teaching children kindness—to each other, to animals, and to the planet. But what about kindness to the smallest creatures among us? Insects may not be cuddly or charismatic, but they play a vital role in our ecosystems—and they deserve compassion too.

That’s the message at the heart of my new children’s book: a gentle story that encourages kids to notice, rescue, and release insects instead of harming them.

Why I Wrote This Book

The inspiration came from watching children instinctively squash a spider or flick away a bug without thinking twice. These reactions are often learned, not instinctive. I wanted to offer an alternative narrative—one where insects are not "icky," but interesting. Where being gentle is a sign of strength, not weakness.

What Children Learn from Helping Insects

• Empathy: Rescuing a ladybug or moving a caterpillar off a footpath teaches kids to consider another creature’s experience.

• Courage: It takes bravery to face something unfamiliar like a buzzing bee or a crawling beetle.

• Responsibility: Kindness isn't just about warm feelings; it's also about taking action to protect those who can’t protect themselves.

How Parents and Educators Can Support This

• Encourage curiosity instead of fear. Use a magnifying glass to explore ants or butterflies.

• Model calm behavior when you see a bug in the house. A glass-and-paper rescue can be a teaching moment.

• Read books (like mine!) that celebrate the small wonders of nature.

By fostering kindness in these small, everyday moments, we help raise a generation that values all life—no matter how tiny.

Let’s teach our children that every creature, no matter how small, deserves a chance to live.