Children and pets
Children and pets. Hum! Hard work but rewarding.
I remember my old English teacher who loved animals, had several dogs, cats, a pony and more, but disliked children profusely. Miss Gregg they called her. She moaned regularly in class about how she disliked us and much preferred her pets. So one wonders why she took up teaching as a profession. Thinking of Miss Trunchbull in Matilda, large overpowering and frightening, Miss Gregg with her tiny petite frame was not quite so scary – but still a force to be reckoned with!
This morning I was thinking about children and animals. Is it good to have them in nursery? And are there positive benefits to having pets at home? Most definitely yes on both accounts. Teaching children at an early age to care for and interact with animals is so important. They need to learn not to be afraid and how to behave around them, whether it be mini beasts or cats and dogs. Children must be taught wisdom. Hum, a big word for a small child. But there are times when it is appropriate to look from a distance, others when contact is acceptable. For example never touch a strange dog until they have shown they are comfortable and friendly around you.
One occasion comes to mind when a colleague of mine went to pat a rather large dog on the head and was met with aggression. Perhaps my colleague triggered a memory of someone of similar appearance who once mistreated the dog. I later discovered, though the dog was now in a loving home he was in fact a rescue. Perhaps he thought my colleague was going to hurt him.
Because of unpredictable animal behaviour some practitioners in schools and nursery settings shy away from contact with animals for health, safety and hygiene reasons.
Sadly, I believe that is depriving children of some great experiences.
Providing adequate risk assessments are done there is no reason why animals shouldn’t be included as part of nursery life.
With all children one of the most important factors of pet care that I emphasise is, wash those hands regularly and thoroughly.
I believe pets are undoubtedly therapeutic and having them around promotes several positive factors;-
1)
It gives children a sense of responsibility, pride and accomplishment when they take care of their pet and fulfill its needs.
2)
A two way relationship develops with friendship and companionship which helps the child to both express and develop socially and emotionally.
3)
Children learn to understand the needs of different animals.
4)
A relationship with an animal teaches children how to follow rules.
5)
A pet can create a very important common bond between siblings.
6)
A cuddle reduces stress, loneliness and anxiety.
And I’m sure there are more positive factors, these are just a few which came to mind. Personally I prefer the furry cuddly type of pet like the one in this photo.
Whatever works for you.
Chat soon.
Anna
