Science Safety: Animals in the Classroom

Key Question What precautions should I take when using animals in the classroom?

Animals Animals can be important to the elementary school classroom Many understandings can be constructed by studying animals Proper care of animals is critical Always check with your building level administration before introducing animals in a classroom

Animal Care The teacher is responsible for ensuring proper care of animals Including proper light, climate control, diet, and sanitation Care must include weekends and holidays Cages must be adequately sized

Animal Care Water bottles should be used for all mammals Waste matter should be wrapped in newspaper, placed in a plastic bag, and deposited in the trash Custodians should be made aware of trash containing animal waste

Animal Care Animals should be minimally and gently handled Non-allergenic gloves should be worn Hands should be washed before and after handling

Animal Care Allow animals to adjust to new environments Safeguard that students do not tease or disturb animals especially when sleeping

Animal Precautions Purchase healthy animals from reliable sources Do not introduce wild animals to the classroom Discourage students from bringing personal pets No poisonous animals

Animal Precautions Inquire about potential student allergies Pick up rabbits, hamsters, mice and lab rats by the scruff of the neck only with a hand under the body for support Do not allow students to insert fingers into a cage

Animal Precautions Report any bites or scratches Do not allow dead animals in the room Have a plan for caring for animals during weekends and holidays Have a plan for caring for animals over the summer

Experiments With Animals Animals used for experiments should be approved by building administration in advance Animals used for experiments are most often invertebrates Only order from reputable suppliers

Experiments with Animals No experimental procedure should cause pain or discomfort Any experiment involving vertebrates should be limited observations Student dissections are not recommended for elementary students

Experiments with Animals Live bacterial and fungal cultures should not be used in elementary science This includes growing of mold If pond water is used, ensure it is not polluted or contaminated Be sure hands are washed after handling pond water

Experiments with Animals Owl pellets should be previously sanitized Check for student allergies to fur and feathers If studying chicken bones, ensure all meat is removed and bones are soaked in a mild bleach solution

Sign School Safety Roster Be sure to understand each of the previous items Sign the Roster attesting your understanding

Reflection Questions How do the topics in this presentation impact your classroom? What is one best practice that relates to this topic that you would share with colleagues or our staff?