ClassX Video Lessons Fun with Magnets! – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s236Q1nuWXg – s236Q1nuWXgLeave Poison Ivy Alone!
It’s finally spring! Squeaks and I are super excited to spend more time outside. We love playing in the park and hiking in the woods. There are so many trees, flowers, and plants to see. But while we’re having fun, we also need to watch out for certain plants, like poison ivy.
Poison ivy is a plant that grows in many parts of North America, especially in the United States and Canada. If most people touch poison ivy, they get a rash that can be red, bumpy, and very itchy. This rash is caused by a sticky liquid that the plant makes in its stems and leaves.
Even though it’s called “poison” ivy, it’s not actually poisonous. Most people are just allergic to it. You might know about allergies if you or a friend is allergic to something like peanut butter. When someone has an allergy, their body reacts to something harmless, thinking it’s dangerous. This is what happens with poison ivy. The plant has an oily chemical that many people are allergic to, causing their skin to react.
If you touch poison ivy, your skin might turn red and get bumps or blisters that itch a lot. It’s important not to scratch the rash because it can make things worse and let germs in. Instead, use cool water or special lotions to help with the itching. The rash usually goes away in 1-3 weeks.
The best way to avoid a rash is to stay away from poison ivy. When you’re outside, keep an eye out for plants that look like poison ivy. Its leaves grow in groups of three. Remember this rhyme: “Leaves of three, let it be!” Not all plants with three leaves are poison ivy, but it’s safer to stay away if you’re not sure.
In the fall, poison ivy leaves still grow in groups of three, but they turn bright red. The vine of the plant also has the oily chemical, so don’t touch it either. If you accidentally touch poison ivy, wash your hands and clothes with hot soapy water as soon as you can. Animals don’t get the rash, but they can carry the oil on their fur, so keep pets away from poison ivy too.
Don’t let poison ivy stop you from enjoying the outdoors this summer. Just keep an eye out for those leaves of three, and let them be! Thanks for joining us at SciShow Kids! Remember to subscribe so you don’t miss our next adventure. See you next time!
Leaf Detective: Go on a nature walk with an adult and try to find different types of leaves. Bring a notebook and draw the leaves you see. Can you find any leaves that grow in groups of three? Remember the rhyme: “Leaves of three, let it be!” Discuss with your adult guide which plants might be poison ivy and why it’s important to avoid them.
Allergy Awareness: Have a discussion with your family or friends about allergies. Do you or anyone you know have an allergy? What happens when they come into contact with something they’re allergic to? Create a simple poster that shows how to stay safe from allergies, including avoiding poison ivy.
Safe Outdoor Play: Plan a pretend camping trip in your backyard or living room. Set up a tent or make one with blankets. Think about what you need to pack to stay safe from poison ivy, like long sleeves, pants, and soap for washing up. Role-play what you would do if you accidentally touched poison ivy during your adventure.
