The Free Press Journal

How pets can enrich children’s lives AGENCIES

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Love requires no words, and neither does love care about the shape and size. The adage perfectly sums up the bond between a human and an animal. Pets perfectly encapsulat­e the notion of unconditio­nal love since the relationsh­ip with them is filled with endless hours of cuddling and joy. They give us affection, teach us responsibi­lity, and are the best stress relievers. Nothing could ever match their pure sensation of sincerity. Here's a look at some ways in which pets can enrich your child's early years:

Pets help in developing emotions and qualities in kids: Animals rely on others for their needs, and caring for them is an excellent method for kids to learn nurturing and caregiving skills. When children see a dog running to the door when it wants to go outdoors, it makes them wonder about their needs, and how they can help. And, when a child is able to fulfil their pet's needs, they feel accomplish­ed, and it also teaches them to care for someone other than themselves. Apart from that, pets also help the child learn basic emotions such as kindness, love, sympathy, responsibi­lity, and respect.

The kids learn key lessons from life: Owning a pet is an excellent method to teach your child about responsibi­lity and empathy. If you have a pet, it allows you to teach your children about the impact their actions have on the pet. For example, if the child is acting hyper around the pet, the dog may get uncomforta­ble. So, a child's interactio­n with a pet will help them understand that their actions have consequenc­es, which can hurt someone. This life lesson will help children develop empathy skills, allowing them to protect others from abuse and make them better human beings. Interactio­n with pets improves the physical and emotional well-being: Simply snuggling on the couch with their beloved puppy or kitten or an animal of their choice can improve a child's mood and reduce stress as feel-good endorphins are released while playing with animals. Moreover, children understand that animals provide unconditio­nal affection, and they can be themselves with the pets. This sense of protection and security is essential for both their physical and emotional wellbeing.

According to scientific research, human-animal interactio­n (HAI) has a good impact on children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Animals help reduce loneliness, improve social behaviour, reduces their stress levels and bridges the gap between the child and their family.

Animals are true confidants: Animals are great listeners; they never interrupt or judge you, making a child feel more comfortabl­e with them. Children enjoy reading books to their pets, which helps them improve their reading skills while also boosting their self-esteem.

 ?? PHOTO: PIXABAY ??
PHOTO: PIXABAY

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