Welcoming A Family Pet 

There are so many benefits to welcoming pets into your children’s lives. Not only are they cute, but they can teach some important lessons that our four legged friends teach the best. Pets relieve stress, provide a safe haven, boost self-esteem, and give the opportunity to care for another and create a special bond.

After a hard day at school your child will feel so much better being able to hang out with their pet and cuddle or talk to them. Many children talk to their pets knowing that it is a non-judgmental space. They may find that they can share their secrets with their pets; it provides your child with a healthy outlet.

Pets can relieve stress and boost self-esteem in many children through the therapy of love. Think about walking into your house and how excited your pets are to see you no matter what kind of day you’ve had. Your pet will love you unconditionally; children need that extra cheer leader in their lives too.

Pets encourage nurturing behavior. Being nurturing is something that has to be learned; it isn’t something that we are born knowing how to do. Being nurtured by our own parents is just a part of it; children also have to be given opportunities to be the nurturers. Owning pets gives boys and girls equal opportunity for this. Depending on the age of your child this can be a great way to teach being gentle. It can help in learning patience and kindness as well.

With a pet to care for your children are given more opportunities to play outside. This can create a stronger bond with the entire family by going on nightly walks with the dogs, and taking them on special outings with the family like camping and picnics.

Caring for pets promotes responsibility. It is a huge responsibility to care for another being. Not meaning that it will be too much for your child, but meaning that they will be gaining the best understanding of others by having a pet. It will teach them empathy and how to think of others; a part from themselves. A pet just might be their first friend outside of the immediate family, which will become a part of the family very quickly. Your child will have an understanding of bonds, and what really makes a family; not just blood.

Perhaps pets are a stretch for you for a few different reasons, so consider something small and simple to handle. Fish and small caged animals can have the same positive effects. It gives your child a better understanding of how precious life is, no matter how small. Seriously, consider a pet for the social and emotional well-being of your children.

~Ms. Brooke
Lead Pre-K
Curriculum Coordinator
Literacy Leader