Background: Farmworkers’ children are at particular risk for pesticide exposure. In addition to food and water contamination, agricultural drift, and overspray, they may be exposed to pesticide residues carried into their homes on the clothing, shoes, and skin of parents who work in agricultural fields. Children may also spend time in the fields. Educational efforts targeting farmworker families are hindered by frequent moves and the long agricultural workday. Migrant and Seasonal Head Start programs provide a valuable opportunity to educate both children and parents about pesticide safety.
Objectives: This project aimed to develop and evaluate culturally appropriate pesticide safety educational materials for migrant preschool students and their parents.
Methodology: Existing preschool health curricula and literature regarding developmental stages were reviewed to identify appropriate topic areas and lesson components. Materials were developed in consultation with the Washington State Migrant Council Parent Committee Council and educational staff. The curriculum will be piloted in spring of 2001 and revised accordingly.
Results: The °Para Niños Saludables! Pesticide Safety Preschool Curriculum consists of lessons focused on three topic areas: (1) Poisons & Pesticides, (2) Handwashing, and (3) Washing Fruits & Vegetables. Curriculum materials include group discussion guidelines and demonstrations; games, crafts, puzzles, dramatic play, and reading activities; classroom materials; take-home activities; and materials for parents.
The Washington State Migrant Council has adopted the curriculum for classroom use during the summer of 2001. Curriculum effectiveness will be evaluated through picture-based elicitation interviews.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, a participant in this session will be able to: *Articulate key pesticide safety messages for preschoolers and migrant parents. *Describe elements of a successful educational intervention for preschoolers and parents. *Assess the effectiveness of curriculum elements through picture-based elicitation interviews.
Keywords: Migrant Farm Workers, Health Education
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: ¡Para Niños Saludables! (For Healthy Kids!), Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.