Because of restrictions by the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA), it isn’t possible to legally import Pogonomyrmex barbatus, the species of ants sold for use in a child’s ant farm. But perhaps you might consider rearing any of a number of alternative insects or small creatures, all of which can be quite interesting. You might even consider starting a worm bin which will have the side benefit of providing compost for your garden. (http://www.oregonmetro.gov/tools-living/yard-and-garden/composting/worm-composting)  

The “Oregon Approved Insect List” should have a number of potential arthropods for projects: http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/shared/Documents/Publications/IPPM/OregonApprovedInsectList.pdf .

To assist in your chosen project, explore these and other websites featuring insect education for kids; you may need to sort through them to locate materials suitable for your child’s age:

- How to rear a Carolina mantid http://ncurbanpests.blogspot.com/2011/10/insect-of-week-carolina-mantid.html

- The University of Florida 4-H bugclub http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/bug_club/index.shtml

- “Bug Hunter; A Guide for Collecting, Preserving and Displaying Insects and Other Arthropods” http://bughunter.tamu.edu/  

- Orkin’s Science Education for Kinds & teachers http://www.orkin.com/learningcenter/kids-and-teachers/

Now and then, you might also plan to visit the Insect Zoo, which is one of the many displays at the nearby Oregon Zoo in Washington Park. http://www.oregonzoo.org/discover/exhibits/insect-zoo  

Good luck and have fun!