_crazy_man_ said:
Not really a job, just a summer job.
As a merit badge counselor for the Boy Scouts for the last 8 summers, I have to deal with many kids, usually around the age of 11-13. I particulaly like to teach the Reptile & Amphibian merit badge, as I am a herper by hobby and you'd be suprised how ill informed peeps are in the subject (adults included).
Wednesday is the day I teach requirement 5 (we have them for 50 minute peroids over 4 days), which deals with Reproduction. Since I am a Biology major (and I was naturally knowledgeable about the subject for a long time) I go into more detial than most merit badge instructors (cause of the issue of sex, most try and make it elementray level to avoid problems).
That means I talk of things like:
Amplexus (Frog and toad mating position)
External sex (99% of frogs and toads do it, a majority of salamanders as well)
Spermatophores (Sperm capsules of salamanders)
Asexual reproduction (Some lizards do this)
Sperm Storage (Most lizards do this)
Hemipenis (Involving snakes have 2 penises, one barbed the other the actual penis)
You'd be suprised how all kids (and adults) have had no problem with me discussing this subject. When I first signed up for the job I was worried of kids telling thier adult leaders or parents of what we discussed and for someone out of the hundreds of kids I've told this, I expected someone to be offended or inappropriate. As a college student working towards a biology/secondary education degree (woot senior this year) I found it curious, though I doubt I'll push my luck once I get into private schools.
I mean yeah I get the occascional snicker/wide eyed folks but nothing like "um...sir....should we/they need to know this stuff?"
I remember back in 2005 when I started this I always had in the back of mind that if the issue ever came up, I would simply say "Well it's in the merit badge book". Luckly I've yet to need to use the arguement.....
Another thing, EVERYTHING I have ever had on display (be it lizards, toads, frogs, or snakes) has had some kid or even adults come up to and ask if "so-and-so" was venomous.....yes johnny scout.....carolina anoles are venemous.......the lack of common sense.....ugh.
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