It’s obvious that children love animals. From toys to clothing to movies, animals are everywhere!
Even more than animals in general, kids love their pets.
There’s a reason why veterinarian is always a top answer when kids are asked what they want to be when they grow up.
Getting pets for kids can benefit them in so many ways. In this article, we’re breaking down the top five reasons why.
5 Benefits of Pets For Kids
Pets teach kids valuable lessons and life skills. Plus, they just make them so happy. What’s cuter than kids and puppies together?
Here are the best of those lessons, life skills, and joys!
1. Companionship
It’s no secret that pets and their owners experience a special bond. This bond gives both parties a sense of companionship. This companionship can be particularly comforting for kids.
It’s been proven that pets help reduce stress levels, likely because of their non-judgmental affection.
Kids are comfortable in front of their pets, even when it comes to developing skills like reading.
Reading to pets can help kids feel more confident when reading aloud. It helps shelter pets feel less anxious too.
2. Socialization
Interacting with pets helps kids learn how to socialize with humans too.
Kids, especially infants and toddlers, often find a connection with pets that is much easier to navigate than the complicated social world of humans.
Studies show that kids with pets often develop higher levels of self-esteem. This is likely due to the sense of competency that results from successfully taking care of another being.
3. Responsibility
It is important for kids to learn the effects of their actions, specifically the importance of responsibility.
Assigning a child with the responsibility of caring for their pet gives them the appreciation that they won’t get from completing other chores: the animal’s love.
The fun aspects, like play time and meal time, are great for young kids to take on. As they get older, it’s also good for a kid to learn the less fun responsibilities, like cleaning up after the pet. This helps to teach them to put in the work for the things they love in life.
4. Nurturing
Having to remember to care for another living being is a great lesson for a child’s developing mind and developing ego.
Kids who learn to instinctually care for a pet at a young age have a leg up in developing their sense of empathy.
Plus, the practice of being a caregiver builds instincts that we keep for a lifetime.
5. Family Bond
A pet that the whole family cares for can help strengthen the bond between family members.
Families grow closer with the shared experiences centered around the pet.
Even if a pet isn’t conducive to your lifestyle, animal centered activities can still help the family bond.
For example, a trip to an Interactive Aquarium can give the whole family new shared experiences outside of the day-to-day activities of school and work.
There You Have It!
Pets for kids can be a great developmental tool and a great way to make them happy all in one.
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