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PETLanguage, literacy and communication
Children can develop speaking and listening skills through talking about an animal’s needs with its owner, explains Dr Lewis. “They need to listen carefully to instructions on how to care for the animal, or to give simple instructions to the school dog.
“They can become more confident in talking or reading to animals, who are a non-critical audience, and when children go home they can tell their parents about the visit of a dog or other animal to school, creating a conversation.”
Dr Lewis says schemes like the Read2Dogs program run by the animal therapy charity Pets as Therapy (currently a virtual service while schools are shut during lockdown), or the John Burns Foundation’s Burns By Your Side reading with dogs scheme, can motivate and engage reluctant readers.
“Burns By Your Side reading with dogs encourages children to improve their reading and literacy,” says Melanie Jones of the John Burns Foundation.
“The child and the dog build up a special relationship which encourages children to want to read because it’s fun and not just because they have to. Over the years we’ve witnessed so much magic between the readers and the dogs.”
Physical development
Simply walking a dog brings huge physical and physiological benefits, Dr Grigg points out. “Studies have shown dog owners are four times more likely to meet recommended physical activity guidelines,” he says.
“And when a child physically stretches out and smooths an animal, it releases endorphins, which can reduce anxiety.”
In addition, through interacting with animals, by grooming or feeding for example, children and young people develop a range of fine and gross motor skills. Those with physical disabilities such as cerebral palsy can benefit from equine-assisted therapy as well, he says.
Imagination, curiosity and creativity
“We should also not forget most children find animals fascinating,” says Lewis. “Animals have many seemingly superpowers – take, for example, a dog’s sense of smell or hearing or a bird’s ability to fly.
“These can capture children’s imaginations and curiosity, generating questions and a desire to find out more.
“They can role-play animal characters, developing a range of social and imaginative skills as they do so.
“Throughout the world, children are busy developing research skills in animal-themed school projects because teachers know the power animals have to inspire and motivate students.”