Releasing our Ladybugs

Ah, summer break, wahoo! It’s the perfect time to unplug and get outside with your children for an enriching science DIY project. The super hands-on and sensory rich Insect Lore products will keep children entertained as they enjoy the wonders of nature.

Last year, my children experienced The Insect Lore Original Butterfly Garden. This arrives with five caterpillars that transform into Painted Lady Butterflies. Once the caterpillar’s cocoon, they can be transferred to their pop-up mesh habitat so children can watch the entire process happen. This kit is the perfect way to bring science home. Watch them grow, then let them go – kids can enjoy their butterfly friends for a few days and then get to experience the excitement of letting them go to continue the amazing life cycle. Kits retail for $24.95 at www.insectlore.com.

This year we were super excited to experience Insect Lore’s Original Ladybug Land! This was a fascinating experience! Children can watch ladybug larvae transform into Adult Pink-Spotted Ladybugs in a clear domed habitat! Watch as the little critters grow, eat and transform into the beautiful red and black spotted insects we know and love! Insect Lore’s Live Ladybug Land arrives with 10 to 12 ladybug larvae and all the food they need to grow into adult ladybugs. Kits retail for $19.99 at http://www.insectlore.com/ladybug-land.

The insects arrive as larvae in tube with paper and food. Our only requirement was to do droplets of water on the “volcano”, as my children named it.

When they grow, all you need to do is soak 2 raisins, cut them in half, and put them in the dome! All together, they were very easy PETS for the 2 weeks or so we had them!

The best thing about both of these habitats is that you can order new bugs to recreate the experience year after year. Just wash it out and repeat!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary Ladybug Land and larvae to conduct this review. All opinions are my own.