Farm Kids Need Protection

FULTS, Ill. — Families and agriculture groups say farming can be dangerous but parents are in the best position to protect their children while helping them learn about the family business.

I agree.  Learning hands-on about how to run the family farm teaches the value of hard work and inside knowledge about a trade.  It also helps families keep food on the table in poorer areas.  I grew up in a farm community, and I remember exceptions planned around hunting season and time to put up hay.  This was necessary for the kids and the families to keep profitable while feeding the region.

Agriculture organizations succeeded last spring in convincing the U.S. Labor Department to drop proposals that would limit farm work by children. Now they say the government should leave safety to parents.

I don't agree.  Farming isn't just dragging a hoe or driving a tractor.  Modern farms use chemicals, pesticides, large machinery and tools that are sharp enough to cut off limbs if used incorrectly.  While parents are in a great position to teach kids how to work a farm, it's clear that there should be some standards for safety like those that protect any other worker.  We have read dozens of articles now about parents who think they know best for their kids and putting them at risk.  While some may cry about government interference, an OSHA-like authority to make sure guides are followed is not a bad idea.

There is room for compromise.  Parents should be smart and understand that basic standards for safety and education are necessary to protect kids, and themselves, from harm.