Kiddipedia
I grew up on a farm as a young boy so animals were just part of my daily ritual. My step father insisted that the animals eat before we did in the morning, and this job fell in my hands. My sister and I were competitive swimmers and were in the pool by 5.30am every morning, this meant getting up before 5am to feed our respective animals. Looking back, I’m so grateful I was able to spend my childhood years with animals. Not only do I have many wonderful memories of my childhood pets, but they also taught me important lessons that I still carry with me today. So much so that my love for pets (particularly my beloved dog Milky) has wiggled its way into every aspect of my life and led me to start a business which is focused on pets and their owners and quality vet care more more convenient, accessible and stress free for our much loved pets.
Now that I have my own son, I am observing the very special magic that happens when children are in the presence of animals. They are calmer, more joyful and filled with curiosity. When a pet becomes family, the opportunities for these meaningful encounters are not only amplified but create fertile ground for helping to shape a child’s sense of self, responsibility and respect for living things.
I’ve watched him cultivate empathy and learn to respect other living things. These are all lessons that research has proven common amongst children with pets, the research demonstrated that all of those experiences help children develop positive values. If you are thinking about pet ownership and want to understand the benefits they can have on your child’s development, here are the top 5 benefits of why pets are so good for your child’s emotional and physical development:
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A family pet equals more exercise!
Research into the physical health benefits of dogs to children health of found that those children that have a family dog do about two hours more physical activity per week. Pet play is also an important way for kids to be active. A dog in the household provides increased opportunities for children to actively play each day.
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Pets are great for the social and emotional development of children.
Pets also have a role to play in the social and emotional development of children. They can improve self -esteem, importance of responsibility, empathy and their sense of the world and them in it.
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Builds understanding of the circle of life.
Children involved in taking care of a pet learn about life and death cycles. The grieving process can help children learn to cope with other losses throughout life.
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Pets are particularly helpful for children going through grief or difficult circumstances.
Pets can help develop a child’s self confidence and trust, and in older children they can become a confidante during difficult times. Pets can be a great listening ear for traumatised and disabled children who can benefit from their unconditional love.
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Pets build a child’s connection with nature.
The Biophilia hypothesis states that humans have an innate need to be in contact with the natural world. When a pet becomes family, you always have that connection with nature. It’s an opportunity for your child to learn the importance of slowing down and enjoying life – whether it be through walking around the park, cuddling on the couch with your pet or stopping your homework to give your dog a pat.
Morgan Coleman is the CEO and Founder of Vets On Call, a mobile app that sees vets visit pets and their owners at home.
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