It’s only a matter of time before your children are old enough to start asking for a pet. This is a common situation for families around the nation. While it’s easy to decide against a pet, having a furry friend in the household can be greatly beneficial to children. From a very young age, growing up with a cat or dog can help teach a variety of crucial life lessons.
Responsibility
One of the first things a puppy, kitten, dog or cat can teach your child is responsibility. Dogs need to be walked, fed, groomed, and, of course, have constant interaction. Cats, which are bit more independent than dogs, still need to be cleaned up after, fed, and brushed. By being partly responsible for the livelihood of their beloved pet, children can apply that form of discipline and accountability to other areas of their life.
Compassion
In addition to being responsible, children must also learn to be kind and caring towards your family’s new four-legged fellow. Puppies and kittens especially need to be carefully cared for and protected from roughhousing. This is a great opportunity to teach children of all ages compassion and care. Use your interactions with the pet as an example of how your children should also pick it up, put it down, pet it and interact with it on a daily basis.
Self-esteem
One of the great things about animals is that they don’t judge us for who we are. Unlike our peers who can sometimes be harsh or judgmental, animals are a loyal and loving companion. Having a cat or dog to love gives children a furry friend that loves them back unconditionally. This can be especially beneficial for children who are shy or those who are the only child living in the household as puppies or kittens raised with children can end up becoming a life-long companion.
Here at Steadfast Academy, we understand that learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom. Responsibility, kindness, and confidence are all lessons that can be taught through opening up your home and your family to a loving dog or cat. For further questions on how a pet can help your child, contact us today.