HOW PETS CAN TEACH KIDS LIFE SKILLS

Pet ownership is a chance to help little ones learn some of life’s biggest lessons in a gentle, rewarding way.

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Most parents experience a time when their little one starts asking for a family pet. While this can feel like yet another thing to manage, there are actually some amazing benefits to pet ownership in terms of children’s development. So take some time to consider the positive effects of adopting a furry friend before you make a final decision.

FIVE LIFE LESSONS

Admittedly, your little one probably isn’t asking for a dog or a cat to further their own development. If you do choose to grant this request, however, there are ways in which it can benefit everyone involved! Raising a pet offers a unique way to teach kids some of life’s most important lessons, such as empathy, duty, staying active and more.

Empathy

In short, empathy is the ability to understand and feel the emotions of another. Spending time with an animal can gently expose little ones to the ups and downs that we all experience in everyday life. If your dog is feeling a little sad or scared, your child will be able to learn that by cuddling and comforting them, they’re helping their canine buddy overcome these difficult feelings.