TV on a Rolling Cart

Why do bug bites itch?

From Mystery Doug

Why do bug bites itch?
6 minK1st2nd3rd4th5thScienceHealth
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Summary

Mystery Doug takes on a real kid's question -- "Why do bug bites itch?" -- and follows the clues. Bug bites itch because your body reacts to the bug's saliva, releasing a chemical called histamine that makes you scratch. A quick five-minute watch to spark curiosity and kick off a conversation.

Viewer safety

All ages
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Teaching resources

Discussion questions

Discussion

Doug investigates a question kids really asked: "Why do bug bites itch?"

  1. What was Doug's answer to today's question, in your own words?
  2. What surprised you most about bite, or what did you already know?
  3. What's one thing this makes you want to find out more about?

Quick work-a-long

Words to know: bite, histamine, itch.

Try it: Explain the answer to "Why do bug bites itch?" to someone at home using these three words, then write down one new question it made you wonder.