1. Science Safety: Animals in the Classroom

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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

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

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

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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

13. 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

14. 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

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

16. 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?