Pets have been proven to have a positive impact on the emotional well-being of individuals. This is especially true for children who are raised in households with pets. The presence of a furry friend can bring about a unique bond that contributes to a child’s overall growth and development. Research suggests that living with pets can help reduce stress, provide social support and companionship, and improve communication skills in children. It is no wonder that owning a pet may give your kids an educational advantage.
According to a study conducted by researchers, children living with pets tend to have better general health. The companionship and love a pet provides can contribute to a child’s overall well-being. In addition, parents of pet-owning children reported that their kids were more obedient and physically active than those who did not have pets. It seems that the responsibility and interaction that comes with pet ownership can instill positive behaviors in children.
Furthermore, children who have pets at home are less likely to experience mood swings and behavior problems. The presence of a pet can have a calming effect, helping children to regulate their emotions and manage stress. This can contribute to a more positive learning environment for children.
Interestingly, some studies have shown that children who live with pets are less likely to be on free school lunch programs and less likely to come from households that move frequently. These factors indicate a more stable home environment, which can promote educational success. Additionally, children with pets are more likely to have parents who speak English, be white instead of African-American, Hispanic, or Asian, and have parents who were born in the United States. These factors may contribute to greater access to educational resources and opportunities.
Arizona-licensed veterinarian, Dr. Eryn Lewis, believes that the presence of pets in households creates a positive impact on children based on personal and research experiences. She notes that pets, in particular, facilitate the development of crucial emotional skills, nurturing responsibility, empathy, and emotional intelligence. Furthermore, she suggests that exposure to pets can fortify children’s immune systems, thus enhancing their overall health. However, Dr. Lewis cautions the correlation between pet ownership and increased access to opportunities and resources and is not a direct causal relationship. In other words, the factors determining a family’s background and socioeconomic status remain unchanged, even with the addition of a pet.
The benefits of owning a pet extend beyond a child’s educational advantage. Pets can also improve social skills in children by providing opportunities for them to interact with others. Having a pet can act as a conversation starter and help children develop communication skills. Children learn empathy, responsibility, and compassion through caring for their pets. These qualities can transfer into their relationships with other people, providing a solid foundation for building social connections.
While owning a pet may offer numerous benefits, it is important to consider the commitment and responsibility that comes with pet ownership. Parents should ensure they have the time, resources, and ability to properly care for a pet before introducing one into their home. Pet ownership requires financial resources, time for exercise and grooming, and a commitment to provide the pet with a safe and loving environment.
The presence of pets in a child’s life can profoundly impact their overall growth and development, including their educational journey. Owning a pet can reduce stress, provide social support and companionship, improve communication skills, and improve children’s general health. However, it is important to note that pets can bring numerous benefits but also require responsible ownership. If you are considering getting a pet for your family, know that you are not only bringing joy and love into your home but also potentially boosting your child’s academic success.
Dr. Aaron Lewis, July 17, 2023
Reference:
Herzog, H. (2017, July 12). Why Kids & Pets are Better. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/animals-and-us/201707/why-kids-pets-are-better