Lead Exposure in Children: What School Psychologists Should Know

N

4

Counselors

Poisoning; School Psychologists; At Risk Students; Child Health; Neurological Impairments; Child Development; Intervention; Prevention; Allied Health Occupations Education; Minority Group Children; Low Income Groups; Disabilities; Cognitive Ability; Behavior Problems; Emotional Problems; Low Achievement

0164-775X

Lead is a naturally occurring element that is extremely toxic to human beings. When children inadvertently ingest lead, their bodies confuse it with calcium, iron, and other nutritional essential metals, causing toxicity. School psychologists more than ever are in perfect positions, with the proper training, to possibly identify children who are currently affected by this complex medical issue and to educate families who may be at risk of exposure. This article will go more in depth about the hidden sources of lead in the environment, describe the neurotoxicity's impact on neurodevelopment, and recommend interventions and preventive steps for educational professionals. This information may also help persuade school psychology graduate programs to incorporate it into their training. It is the responsibility of healthcare professionals, professionals working with children and families, and those who have a responsibility to their communities to stop what is still an epidemic that can potentially be controlled and minimized.

ERIC

2022

EJ1322459