Over time, ingested lead can cause damage to the brain, nervous system, and kidneys. Damage from lead can have serious consequences. Many parents don't realize their children have been exposed to lead until they become ill. Children who have high levels of lead in their blood may not appear to be sick. Lead is highly toxic.
Lead enters the body primarily through the mouth or nose.
Exposure to lead, even in small amounts, can be especially dangerous to very young children. A child may be exposed to lead from paint, dust, and soil brought into the home on the bottom of shoes. Designate one day of Earth Week as a Community Clean Up Lead Day. Have students create colorful posters about lead poisoning prevention and how everyone can reduce lead poisoning in the community. Your PTA may want to prepare a press release or write letters to the community newspaper to promote your activities.