Tips for Presenting Humane Education Issues

TeachKind routinely receives calls from teachers who are eager to talk to students about respecting animals and from community members who have been invited to speak to schools. Their first questions are: "What do I talk about? How do I do it?"

Don't ever doubt your ability to speak to kids about animal issues that are close to your heart. Before you begin, find security in your belief that animals deserve to be treated with respect and kindness.

Some ideas to keep in mind when preparing your talk:

• Choose an age-appropriate topic. If you're talking to younger children, keep the topic simple and make it one students can explore through role-playing. Teach them why empathy (putting oneself in someone else's shoes) is important. Print and use our online lessons and activity sheets or order one of our free lesson kits or other materials to help you.
• Speaking to high school or college students? Delve into more complex subjects, like the ethical concerns related to using animals in experiments, raising animals for food, or using animals for clothing or entertainment. TeachKind offers free videos, lessons, literature, and other materials to help make your presentations interactive, memorable, quality experiences for students.
• You don't need to be an expert. But do be informed. Research books, periodicals and Web sites. The "Ask Carla" Web site is a great place to start. Watching online videos is also invaluable.
• Decide what to say. How will you present the information? Does your choice of words reflect what you are saying about animals? Review the TeachKind writing and speaking tips. Even if you know your topic inside and out, be prepared for unexpected questions. You may not always have the answer, but you can always share with your students why you believe animals deserve our respect and compassion.
• Involve students in your presentation. Giving a talk on rescuing abandoned or orphaned animals? Bring materials for students to create their own animal rescue kits to take home. Enhance your presentation with a display, a video, leaflets, stickers, or other materials to help get your message across. Order free materials from TeachKind.