One look at their furry little faces and most people are smitten. There is something about dogs, cats, and other four-legged companions that give kids a sense of security and provide a calming presence to adults. So how are pets good for our kids? In addition to teaching them empathy, responsibility, and love, pets can make great friends and companions for children. Pets also show kids how to express love by petting, being gentle, hugging or kissing. Pets have been shown to help children overcome shyness, develop trust, and enhance their social skills.
Living with a pet offers several opportunities in everyday life that encourage responsible behaviour in children. Providing fresh food and water daily becomes an everyday ‘duty’ for kids and they fully understand that if they don’t remember to take care of their furry friends, they will go hungry. The fact that a pet is dependent on them boosts a child’s confidence in the process. Children as young as three years old can manage simple tasks such as filling the pet’s water and food bowls. As the child gets older, they can groom and walk the pet.
Empathy is one skill that can be taught and pets play a helpful role in this. Living with a pet teaches children to read their pet’s needs- is he hungry? Does he need to go outside? Maybe the pet is scared of the wind, rain or snow and needs to be comforted. The compassion for other living beings, in general, also develops over time. The way kids love them and take care of them provides a constant way for them to outwardly showcase love.
Pets give unconditional love. They are non-judgmental, and, especially for a child who is lonely, distressed or emotionally drained, a pet gives them someone to talk to. A pet can comfort, give support, and listen to a child’s troubles without judgment or consequence. Pets show us unconditional love, and that is a boost to one’s self-esteem. And, when playing, a pet can become your child’s partner and best buddy.
Pets, particularly dogs, love to play. Whether it’s just running in circles, fetching, wrestling with other dogs, or playing tug-of-war, they play just for the fun of it. Maybe they know that play makes them happier. And guess what, it’s the same with kids. Playtime is equally important for children. Playing contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and youth. Play also offers an ideal opportunity for parents to engage fully with their children.
Listening, an important life skill is mostly ignored as we grow up. But have you ever tried talking to your pet? Do you see that look in the dog’s or cat’s eyes? And they rarely interrupt! Moreover, they never look down at their phone in the middle of a conversation. Pets don’t offer unsolicited advice or interrupt. They just listen for as long as the person wants to talk. How might our relationships be improved if we did the same? So let’s simply ‘stop talking’ and ‘start listening’.
Animals have a natural curiosity that helps them learn important life skills. As a general rule, young kids are equally curious but then often lose their curious nature as the stresses and demands of adult life take over. Living with a pet lets that spark of curiosity never die out. After all, curiosity can improve intelligence, relationships, and even happiness! So take a cue from your dog or cat, they are always curious about what you are doing, who walked by the house, what is on your dinner plate, and what kind of stuffing is inside that pillow!