Preventing insect stings

To prevent stings:

  • Teach children and adults to stay calm when they see stinging insects. Getting excited and moving around rapidly can provoke insects and result in a sting.
  • Keep trash cans away from outside play areas.
  • During picnics, avoid sweet foods such as fruits and fruit juices unless water is available to rinse off sticky areas after eating.
  • Because perspiration and overheated skin also seem to attract stinging insects, sponge off, sprinkle, or spray children with water to keep them fresh and cool.


If any child is allergic to bee or other stings, be prepared to treat the child for the allergy as recommended by the child’s physician.