Page 4 - Kids and Bees Resource Booklet_SP_Neat

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Our bees provide one out of every three bites of food that we eat. No bees, no food, no us. It's also a commonly
known fact that our bees are in trouble. Annual losses of honey bee colonies are in the tens of thousands, and
many species of native bees are heading for the endangered species list. It is imperative to the bees’ survival
that our kids feel a connection to the bees in their backyards, and beyond. It will be up to the next generation to
not only understand their importance, but to take action in their conservation.

We have also reached a point where kids outdoor play is at an all-time low. The term “nature-deficit disorder”
was coined by author Richard Louv in his book “Last Child in the Woods” to describe what happens to young
people who become disconnected from their natural world. Louv links this lack of nature to some of the most
disturbing childhood trends, such as the rises in obesity, attention disorders, and depression. Bees can raise
fear in kids, but there is a very thin line between fear and fascination. With a little bit of positive encourage-
ment, it’s easy to bump kids over to the other side! I’ve been lucky to spend the last few years introducing kids
to bees, and then watching them create a special relationship with insects and nature, based on fascination, love,
and caring.

The bees need our kids, the kids need our bees, and the beekeeping industry needs them both. Without a new
generation of beekeepers, bee researchers, and bee advocates, the industry would cease to exist! I’m on the
edge of my seat with excitement to see what the newest generation of bee professionals will invent in the
“Information Age” to preserve our bee populations, and our beekeepers! Let’s give them the knowledge and
tools they need start down this path.

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You may have noticed little symbols in the margins, a smoker and a chalkboard. These symbolize who different
sections of the book are aimed at. This Handbook is for anyone who wants to teach kids about bees. I’m assum-
ing that means you’re a classroom or homeschool teacher, or a beekeeper.

If you see a smoker symbol near the section title, beekeepers pay especially close attention.

The same is true for the chalkboard, these sections are aimed at classroom teachers.

If you see both the smoker and the chalkboard , this section is designed for all!

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This book is meant to be used as a guide. You are taking full responsibility for your actions and your students as
you lead lessons, organize events, and work with bees. It is up to you to use proper safety procedures, risk man-
agement, and situational awareness. The sponsors and the authors of this handbook aren't responsible for any
accidents that could occur.

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