May 20 is World Bee Day!
World Bee Day was officially declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018 and was created to help call attention to the essential role of bees in keeping us, and our planet, healthy.
I’m proud to recognize this day and help to call attention to the importance of bees today and every day!
This year’s World Bee Day theme is "Bee engaged with Youth." It’s with great pride and happiness that I am able to do just that with my education sessions. So far this year I have taught kids as young as three, all the way up to Grade 3.
I am always so impressed with the curiosity, questions and excitement from these young students! Occasionally, a student will come into a session with a fear of bees, usually from a sting experience. After an up-close look at the bees in my observation hive, those fears dissolve. A safe, encouraging and educational environment makes all the difference!
The involvement of young people in beekeeping and conservation efforts is so important! They are the future stewards of our environment. It’s a great privilege to help raise awareness about the essential role of bees among young kids. By engaging young people, we can inspire a new generation of environmental leaders to make a positive impact on the world. Learn more about my education sessions here.
You don't have to be a beekeeper to protect bees and other pollinators. Here are some easy ways you can help our bees!
Plant a diverse set of native plants, which flower at different times of the year
Help create some Buzz about World Bee Day! Share this blog post!
Buy raw honey from local farmers – there are a number in Durham Region!
FUN FACT:
May 20 was chosen for World Bee Day in honour of a man named Anton Jansa from the country of Slovenia. Born on May 20 in 1734, Anton Jansa has been called the founder of modern beekeeping. He devoted his life to beekeeping!