Look at the Christmas and birthday wish-lists for most children, and right at the top, spot #1, will be a request for a dog, a cat, or another animal. As parents, we see this request and think, "Oh great, just one more thing for me to take care of." But what you may not realize is that, in addition to teaching responsibility and empathy, having a pet can bring your family a multitude of benefits.
One of the first advantages of having a pet is the time a child spends away from screens and with the animal. Whether they are in the yard or in the living room, the interaction keeps them focused on something other than electronics. You don't need any wires or external stimuli when playing catch with a dog or snuggling a cat. Plus, children sit at school for eight hours a day, so moving around and chasing a pet is wonderful exercise disguised as care.
Many experts agree that pets provide emotional and physical support. Because they are not judgmental, pets are the go-to when a child is feeling sad, anxious, or alone. The simple act of petting a fur friend is also incredibly calming, therapeutic, and accepting.
Have you ever tried to get your child to read a book on their own? Try asking if they can read a book to your dog or cat. Imagine your child sharing their favorite story. They will feel free to take risks and try new words when their audience does not judge their abilities.
You may think that child-rearing and maternal instinct begin once you have a child. But that is not true. You can give your kids a head start by teaching them nurturing skills through caring for a pet. If you have multiple children, the older ones are asked to help care for their younger siblings. They will be prepared. But there is no other place in the family where a younger child can learn to take care of another living thing. Think of the advantages they will have when they get older and have friends or partners who need attention and love.
Finally, a pet is more than just a four-legged (or two-legged) friend. They quickly become part of the family. To maximize benefits for both people and pets, parenting coach Kate Garzón of Guided Parenting Support - GPS® encourages families to do careful research first to ensure their lifestyles match the animal's needs. "If you're often away from home for work or activities, choosing a pet who requires a lot of attention, walks, and time-consuming care might not be a good fit - and won't bring out the best in your kids or your animals."
But if animal safety fits into your sometimes-over-scheduled, exhausting lives, time spent with children and pets is valuable family time that will be remembered long after everyone is grown and flown.
...there is no other place in the family where a younger child can learn to take care of another living thing.