Animals can provide great opportunities for entertainment and learning. Most children are naturally drawn to animals; therefore interaction with animals can be a fun activity where learning comes as a side-affect.
Pets have also been known to help support children who struggle with reading.
Children will find it easier reading to a curled up cat or dog than reading to an adult. Over time, reading to a pet will promote more confidence with a child's reading at home and at school.
The physical responsibility of looking after a pet is also beneficial for children and provides them with active jobs around the house. These active jobs will include jobs such as cleaning out cages, taking dogs for walks, feeding, playing etc.
Days out to see animals, for example visiting a zoo or farm, will also have many benefits for children and even babies and toddlers.
This kind of contact with animals will develop a greater understanding of compassion, responsibility, and empathy just like having a pet does. It is good for children to learn about different animals and their important role in our world. Children need to see that they relate heavily to our everyday lives. As part of this learning children will start to understand more about nature and our environment as well as other environments. Understanding animals' different habitats is important and teaches us about their different needs as well as habitats around the world.
Children need to understand that animals live in different conditions and in different environments. In particular Zoos will help teach your kids about more exotic animals that they might not otherwise have come across. Visiting these animals may cement learning they have done in nursery and school or from reading books. It will connect the learning with reality and make lessons come alive to reinforce learning.
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