5 BENEFITS OF CHILDREN HAVING PETS

From funny sleeping positions to cute nibble habits, pets have seemingly found the soft spot in humans that leave us love them even more. And because of this, it’s almost impossible for a kid not to be begging to have one or two minions to keep.

And besides the pretty picture, kids genuinely caring for a pet are set up to a subconscious mode of personal growth and self-development. Here, we’ll discuss why it’s a great idea for kids to have their own faunal buddy.

1. Pets provide kids with positive energy

Dogs, cats, and bunnies are pets that consider play time as an essential part of life. These pets love to run around, twiddle with furniture, and everything else. Do you know who else share the same thoughts? Kids!

There’s nothing more complementing than an active kid with an equally energetic pet. Providing the enjoyment and leisure experience that a child needs through quality time with pets instills confidence and happiness in children’s character. This makes them more likely to become outgoing and good humored when they grow up, and less likely to develop depression and despondence.

What’s even better is you can relieve the burden to having to pour attention to either one’s playtime demands. It’s hitting two birds with one stone!

2. Pets relieve anxiety and help kids relax

While popular pets like the ones mentioned above are known for their lively spirit, there are kinds that prefer to live a peaceful and tranquil mood. Fishes, bugs and reptiles are awesome critters to have around. They aren’t much into the ‘run-around-the-house’ trip; however, they do appreciate a clean and complete living space where you can observe them without causing too much stress.

Owners of these kinds of pets find simple joy watching their critters crawl, hang, hide, and eat. If you’ve ever seen one of those big aquariums, you’d probably share the serene feeling watching fishes calmly go about, making their way through water plants, and maybe even hiding in their fish home.

Bugs are a rare choice for pets, but you’ll admire the creativity, intelligence and uniqueness these pets offer. From building webs, to intricate tunnels and burrows, to intriguing exoskeleton sheds and slimes, there’s so many things to notice and learn from these creepy crawlies. Stick insects, giant snails, hissing cockroaches, millipedes – all are great pets for children and are generally safe to care for. They are slow and don’t eat much, making them an easy and practical bet.

Turtles, corn snakes, geckos and bearded dragons are popular options for the reptilian fanatics. These are harmless and slow crawlers that don’t demand much attention except for feeding time. Just be sure to do research and communicate well with your pet provider before deciding to have one of these delicate beauties.

3. Pets make you responsible

Kids are obviously in to having pets for the obvious perks. But when it comes to grooming, timely feeding, and general pet maintenance, most young owners turn the other way to leave the boring stuff to their parents.

Educating and training your kids to fully take care of their pets should be serious discussion when preparing to add a new member to the family. Picking up after pets, cleaning the cages, and being consistent with feeding and grooming routines are integral parts of owning a pet. Training a child to do these simple steps will set them to manage bigger and more important obligations in life.

4. Pets teach you about empathy and kindness

If you’ve ever accidentally stepped on a dog’s foot, you’ll know how painful the feeling is (probably even more pain than what the dog felt). But the amazing thing is dogs don’t really hold a grudge and proceed to ask for cuddles and tickles right after.

Mammal pets such as dogs, cats, fancy rodents, and guinea pigs are known to show love and affection like how humans share affection: through cuddles, licks, and snuggles. The cozy tenderness gives youngsters the joy and warm feeling of being loved and loving back.

Meanwhile, reptiles and fishes aren’t like our furry friends. Their behaviors are more focused on basic activities such as eating, hiding, drinking, breeding – basically surviving. If you observe any emotions besides those, then most often than not they’re pissed or frightened, and would take a defensive position. So it’s best to respect and leave these critters be and observe and care at a safe distance.

Although, some reptiles are known to show excitement and love for humans. Iguanas are known to show a liking when petted and stroked. And turtles surprisingly hurry towards you if you’re giving food – who wouldn’t?

5. Pets help you socialize

Having a pet teaches kids the joy and importance of having someone to trust. Kids turn to their pets as their confidant, someone they can share their worries, excitement, anxiety, and interests.

Kids who have a hard time getting along with others or even their parents would greatly appreciate having a dog as a buddy. Often, these kids are fearful of being judged, bullied, or hurt. Choosing the right animal companion for your kid can stimulate the fondness of getting along and help build connections. With this, kids can grow up to be more confident and sociable in dealing with other people.

Pets can provide the same level of connection as with a human. If you’ve ever found yourself talking to your pet (maybe even in silly voices), don’t worry. You aren’t crazy. You don’t really talk to your pets because you think they can understand you, but rather, you talk to them because you feel a human connection with them – that, and the cuteness overload of however way they respond. What’s a tummy tickle without a high-pitched voice saying “koochie koochie koo?”

Not to mention, pets are great conversation starters. Walking your dog at the park, posting YouTube videos of how you feed your lizard, or showing photos of your ant colony in social media can gain you a great network of people who share the same interests.

SUMMARY

Pets are generally great to be around and make more ways to enjoy life. Choosing the right pet for your kids can not only give them an amazing experience growing up, but it will also nurture their development in various life aspects. Teach your kids to treat their pets right, and pets will reciprocate with unconditional love that cannot be bought – well, maybe with food.