Did you know that besides being a source of warm, fuzzy entertainment, pets can offer several developmental benefits to children as well? A child’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development can all be encouraged by interaction with the family pet. Below are some examples of these benefits:
- Social – pets can be wonderful social facilitators as children are more prone to approach and interact with another child who is playing with a pet
- Physical – pets provide an incentive for running and practicing motor skills
- Emotional – Pets can facilitate various aspects of emotional development such as self-esteem and social responsibility
- Cognitive: As children grow they may develop an interest for a specific animal and when encouraged to read about their favorite pet, parents encourage a child’s cognitive development by sparking their desire for learning.
Source: She Knows – click here to learn more
