– BASF Canada and Earth Rangers have expanded BASF Kids’ Lab, a series of hands-on chemistry workshops developed by BASF for students in grades 4 through 6, to rural schools across Canada. Since 2013, the program has reached more than 2,500 students in Canada and has expanded into additional communities with an agriculture-focused workshop.
From October to December 2015, the program will engage students in 30 Canadian classrooms, at no cost to the schools or participants. The 45-minute session, entitled “We Dig Soil,” will include an “earth as an apple” demonstration to illustrate the amount of land available for agriculture, as well as a fun hands-on activity to illustrate how soil acts as a filter. Participants will also take home a BASF backpack including safety goggles, an apron and a farming activity placemat.
“Earth Rangers educates children on the importance of maintaining healthy environments where they live. Rural communities have a strong connection to agriculture, so delivering BASF Kids’ Lab to these students provides an excellent opportunity to educate children about the science behind agriculture and the important role it plays in our natural world,” said Peter Kendall, Executive Director, Earth Rangers.
Established at BASF’s global headquarters in Germany in 1997, Kids’ Lab invites children to explore the world of chemistry through safe and fun experiments designed to foster an interest in science-related hobbies and, eventually, explore its career possibilities. Over the years, the program has been delivered successfully in more than 16 countries worldwide.
“Since bringing the program to Canada, we’ve received very positive feedback from both students and educators,” said Ron Kehler, Business Director, BASF Canada. “Programs like Kids’ Lab are important to the agriculture industry as they help children connect how food is produced on the farm for us to eat at home. This year we’ve invited growers to attend some of the labs to help grow that connection.”
