Bed Bugs: Answering Your Child's Questions

If you think you are freaked out about bed bugs, can you imagine how your child feels? He is probably overhearing conversations, not getting the entire story, and wondering what is going to happen next. It may not be easy but try to put yourself in his shoes. Take some time to explain the situation and calm his nerves. Here are a few common questions that your child may have.

Are the bed bugs going to bite me?

You know that the insects you are dealing with are small. You know that they can bite and they can leave marks and even draw blood. If your child is young, he may be imagining a giant bug the size of his hand sneaking over the side of his sheets at night.

You don't' want to lie to your child you also want to provide some reassurance. Explain that they can bite but you are handling the problem right away. In some cases, the exterminators can be the exterminator can be the hero to your story.

Who is going to take care of the bed bugs? (or How are you going to do it?)

Kids want a solution and they want it right away. Explain that someone is going to come into the house and take care of the insects. This prepares them to see someone new in the house. When the time comes for you to leave, your child will understand why you are leaving and what is being done to the house. Depending on his age, you can include details about the process.

Reassure them that the house will be okay, their toys will be okay, and their pets (if you have them) will be okay. If the exterminator is using chemicals, explain how they work and remind your child that they will not negatively affect them. If you are going with a heat treatment, let them know that their room is not going to melt. It might sound funny to you but your child may really be thinking these types of things.

I'm scared.

While this isn't a question, it still needs to be addressed. At any age, being afraid of bed bugs is a legitimate concern. Try not to overlook their worries, questions and comments. Even if you have answered the same question countless times, it is worth answering again. This is a sign that he is not settled about the situation and could be experiencing some anxiety.

Use your judgment when it comes to how much information you plan to share and do the best you can to reassure you child that everything is going to be okay. Make sure that you are letting them know that a solution is right around the corner.