I’ve got to spill the beans about this super cool DIY project I just finished up – a bug hotel! Yep, you heard that right, a bug hotel made from nothing more than a small empty cardboard box, some empty toilet paper rolls, twigs, and moss, which I snagged from the Dollar Store. It’s seriously the cutest thing ever, and I can’t wait to tell you all about it!
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So, here’s the scoop: I teach preschool, and we’ve been knee-deep in our bug theme lately. I wanted to create something special for my little ones to explore and observe bugs up close, and that’s when the idea of a bug hotel hit me like a lightning bolt!
Hotel Materials 🪲
First things first, I gathered all my supplies. The cardboard box was perfect because it was just the right size – not too big, not too small. My box had some writing on the outside, so I used a few pieces of brown cardstock to cover it up (totally optional)! Then, I grabbed a bunch of empty toilet paper rolls. You know, the ones that usually end up in the recycling bin? Well, not this time! These babies were going to be luxury suites for our insect friends.
Next up, I scoured my yard for twigs that had fallen from the trees. I grabbed a bunch of twigs of different shapes and sizes to add some variety to our bug hotel. I shopped around the Dollar Tree for some earthy material and moss. Let me tell you, that Dollar Tree is a goldmine for craft supplies! And the moss? It adds that cozy, natural touch that bugs just can’t resist.
Crafting Our Bug Hotel🌿
Once I had all my supplies, it was time to get to work. I arranged my empty toilet paper rolls in the cardboard box, stacking them up to create different levels and hiding spots. I added the twigs and moss, making sure to leave plenty of nooks and crannies for bugs to explore.
When it was all said and done, I stepped back and admired my handiwork. And let me tell you, it was a thing of beauty! Our bug hotel was ready for guests, and I couldn’t wait to see who would check in first.
I set up the bug hotel in our sensory table, along with faux bugs, wooden blocks, and extra natural materials for them to build with. The kids were beyond excited when they saw it – they couldn’t wait to start exploring!
So, if you’re looking for a fun and educational project to try with your little ones, I highly recommend making your own bug hotel. It’s easy, affordable, and guaranteed to provide hours of entertainment. Who knows, you might just discover a newfound appreciation for the tiny creatures that share our world!
Until next time, happy bug hunting!