Some animals have venom, to either catch prey or defend themselves. Australian children may be interested in venom because of snakes, spiders and bees. Venom is injected through an action like biting or stinging.
Preschool children may be curious about venom and how it works. The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) supports children to learn about natural substances (4.4) that teach respect for nature (2.4).
Learning experiences
Make venom
Children can make their own venom by mixing different substances. Start by asking them what they think venom looks like. Next, provide ingredients like food colouring, water, oil and cornflour. Let the children experiment until they create a mixture they are happy with.
Learn first aid
Children can research and role play what to do if someone is bitten by a spider, snake or bee. Educators can demonstrate how to correctly apply a pressure immobilisation bandage. Also let the children play and imagine their own scenarios.
Read first aid for snake bites, spider bites and insect stings on Health Direct.
Research
Encourage children to investigate their interest by:
- talking about what they already know about venom
- brainstorming words that describe venom (e.g. gooey)
- listing questions they have
- using the internet and books to discover their answers.