Page 16 - Boardwalk Meander Issue 3

LIFESTYLE

THE BENEFITS OF

CHILDREN HAVING PETS

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY ALEXANDRA

pet is not only a lifelong Being responsible for another living thing have been too shy to approach.
companion, but owning a pet is can benefit your child’s physical, social
A also a rite of passage for a child. and cognitive development. Perhaps your new pet will also act as
Whether your first pet was a hermit a social object for your child because
crab, a goldfish, a cat or a dog, it will Playing with a pet will encourage kids to animals are so accepting and eager te
always be remembered. Getting a pet put down their electronic gadgets and please. Research has shown that animal’s
can often be a big step for a family to get outdoors into the fresh air. Aside social nature can give humans practice for
take, but did you know they offer so from breathing in fresh air, the outdoor their own social relationships. They can
much more than just entertainment? play will mean your child and your pet will see their pet as someone to talk to, trust
get exercise and burn any excess energy. and share an important relationship with.
Younger children will also benefit from
playing with their pet as it will help Pets also give kids a sense of
their motor skills. Tasks as simple as responsibility, even if they may forget
playing catch will help hand-eye to feed the dog or walk it occasionally.
coordination in a fun way. Being given the task of feeding, walking
or cleaning up after their pet will always
Aside from the physical be seen as a chore for your child but
benefits, your child will it also teaches them to think outside
also learn important of their own needs and desires. It also
social skills with a pet. allows the child to see the consequences
Pets are particularly that impact the pet directly when they
beneficial for children do not perform these tasks.
who are shy, as
they may feel they A general interest in the animal will
can approach other also encourage cognitive development.
children who are Their excitement will spark interest in
playing with their pet. the animals’ breed, what they eat, what
Having a pet can help they like and dislike. This means they
children find common are learning and once they learn they
ground and bridge gaps will dissipate this information to you and
with other kids they might their social circle.

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Boardwalk Meander Estate Issue 3 · 2024