I'm doing a Reptile Presentation at an Elementary School

[Egapal]

These are all very good suggestions. I won't be handling all of the reptiles that whole 2-3 hours. I might take one out at a time while explaining where they come from and while the students touch them. I will make sure to minimize the stress as much as possible.

My fiance works with a woman who has a son that desperately wants a snake. 10 years old and very knowledgeable. Took me 3 hours to show him 3 snakes and my rodents and answer all his questions. I can't imagine cramming everything I would want to say into such a small period of time. Personally I would want all the kids parents to sign a disclaimer. People are quick to sue when a child gets bit.

[EverEvolvingExotics]

Took me 3 hours to show him 3 snakes and my rodents and answer all his questions. I can't imagine cramming everything I would want to say into such a small period of time.

That will be the worse part, only letting some of the questions get answered.

[JayyPastel24]

Nice I remeber wen I did a presentation for a school, but use big words like ectothermic and explain to them that that's cold blooded, and you might get some that are scared of course but your going to do great Enjoy and. Best of luck

[dogdayofsummer]

I don't know about release forms. We had an awesome handler that worked for the school district and created a outdoor learning center. Jim would tell the kids to use two fingers, and a very light stroke. He would only allow five to line up at time, and it was a quick trip up and then right back to their seats. Discuss how you want to handle that portion with the teachers, they can be your best safety net. He never allowed the kids near the head of the snakes, or other critters. He used to bring in Katy, an 18 foot burmese python, she was much the celebrity around here. Be prepared for off the wall questions.

[EverEvolvingExotics]

Yeah, I think a few quick light touches per kid will be enough for them without stressing out my reptiles too much. I can't wait to hear the questions. Hopefully I will have some good ones to share with you all.

[dogdayofsummer]

Here is a link to Jim Dunlap regarding his retiring from our school district, him and Katy were by far the most popular teachers around here. There are a couple pictures of him with the late Katy.

http://planoblog.dallasnews.com/arch...e-retires.html

[EverEvolvingExotics]

I got to do the presentation this morning. I spent a half hour each in 4 different rooms. The kids went crazy over all the reptiles. The question time was mostly filled with kids telling me stories of their experiences with poisonous snakes.

I actually had one kid tell me a snake jumped off of his car, wrapped around his neck, bit him in the ear AND chest, plus it poisoned him! It was hilarious, I just said "that's insane!"

I really can't wait to do it again. My favorite part was getting a really scared kid to touch it. Once they felt how cool they are their faces just lit up with interest.

I recommend this opportunity to everyone.

[DooLittle]

Last year we brought our (very mellow) corn snake to our daughters first grade class. It was a great experience for the kids. Hopefully we will help some of them to love snakes and reptiles more and not be afraid. I was surprised how many children actually came up to pet her. Only one did not. The rest could not get enough. Thinking about taking our bp this year if they will let us. Good job, glad other people are out there trying to expose and educate kids about these wonderful animals!

[MTovar]

you are going to make a difference in someones life. Good Job!