When I take kids fishing I like using wax worms on a small jig under a bobber. The kids can usually lift the panfish with the jighead. The wax worms are less messy than earthworms and you can have a contest to see how many fish you can get without changing bait.
Waxworms= maggots. EEEEUUUUUCCCCHHHHH!!!
Trying to say something clever without insulting…
I’ve got nothing. 
And I, on the other hand, have this to say. My compliments to you, raw69, on taking the time and having the patience to take kids fishing. I’m sure there are statistics somewhere out there that state how much you add to their positive life experiences. One of my favorite fishing related quotes was uttered by Jerry Mcginness (sp) after each show he produced," dedicated to dad. He always had time to take me fishing". Your choice of bait is of NO consequence.
Mark
Except it’s the thread topic. We all take kids fishing.
You can imitate maggots/wax worms. There was a link from flyfishohio.com that had a fly pattern called the Irony but the link to the fly no longer works. Have to talk to Joe Cornwall about that. Well the link does seem to be working now.
http://www.flyfishohio.com/Irony_fly.htm
Here is the bill of materials for the recipe:
Hook: Mustad Ultra Point Octopus Beak 1x Fine Wire 92604BLN or 92604R (red)
Thread: Black or Red 6/0 140 Denier
Body: Elastic band
Collar: Lightly dubbed natural rabbit, possum, mink or similar
Head: Medium copper or black head
The body can be latex from a latex glove or surgical type glove. Best of luck.
Having used the real thing, this recipe looks really interesting!!
Thanks DA.
look at Ricks Favorite bluegill flies in the panfish archives the the rat tail grub.
This is Tony Spezio pattern that is like a wax worm.
Rick