Think Like a Scientist and EARN A REWARD !

Pesticides are designed to kill insects, mites or nematodes. But, they can also poison other critters, including bees or even people.  Kids are exposed to a wide variety of pesticides every day. Shoes track these chemicals into our homes. The wind spreads them beyond the field or garden. Some bug or rodent killers are even designed for use in homes. And traces of pesticides may be on our foods.  Even low levels of pesticides can cause behavioral problems, trouble concentrating or even cancer, notes the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

We can take steps to reduce pesticide exposure. One way is to eat organic foods. Another is to take a natural approach to pest control.  For instance, gardeners or farmers may release ladybugs or other natural predators onto their plants. There, the good bugs munch on the pests. Or growers can plant things that attract birds.  The birds will patrol a yard or field snacking on caterpillars, grasshoppers and other animals that may pose a threat to plants. 

Fewer pesticides means a safer environment for people, pets and welcomed wildlife — including bees.

This post based on information on the StudentScience webpage.  Click here for more info: Student Science Webpage

Think Like a Scientist and Earn a Reward!

 

Ask your parents if you have any pesticides in your home and ask them to help you answer the following questions.  (Do not handle any pesticides without adult supervision.)

• What is the name of the pesticide?
• Does the front of the can or bottle have a warning label?  If so, what does it say?
• Where does your family use this pesticide?
• Has the person who uses the pesticide read the warnings (so they can use it safely)?
• If you did not use the pesticide to kill bugs, what would happen?
• What are three other methods you might use to control the bugs (instead of using pesticide)?

WASH YOUR HANDS WITH SOAP AFTER HANDLING THE PESTICIDE CAN OR BOTTLE!

Write your answers on a sheet of paper and give to Mrs D by Friday, March 28^th to EARN A REWARD!  You can also email your answers to: annedurrance@gmail.com