Children follow the lead of adults when it comes to insects. An entomophobic parent who sprays or squashes every invertebrate in her path will undoubtedly teach her child the same behavior. But few of the arthropods we encounter in our everyday lives are threats of any kind, and many are vital to our own well-being. Insects fill many important jobs in the ecosystem, from pollination to decomposition. Spiders prey on insects and other invertebrates, keeping pest populations in check. It's worth knowing when (if ever) an insect warrants a squishing and when it deserves to be left alone, and teaching our children to respect invertebrates as they would any other wildlife.
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