When I think of children and pets, my memory takes me back to the early 1980s in the US, when both my sons were in elementary school. One day my younger son came home from school with the craze of having a pet. He wanted a fish bowl with some gold fish. So off we went to get some gold fish and fish bowl. For him getting a pet was one of the most enriching and delightful experiences. Later he informed us that they had a small fish tank in their classroom.Unfortunately we knew very little about caring for the fish. As a result after a few weeks all the fish died. That is when he realized that he needed more information about keeping fish. So both my sons did some research: brought books from the library regarding keeping fish as a pet, talked to their teachers and finally they were ready for a new setup.
This time we got a small fish tank. With all the required equipment and some fish. Now the setup looked good. My sons were very happy looking at the fish. They even had names of their favorite fish. Not just for them, the fish proved to be a source of relaxation for our whole family. Every evening after work I would just sit and watch the fish swim around the air bubbles and the bubbler.
I realized each fish had a characteristic of its own. This setup stayed with us till we left Boston for DC in 1990. I know some of you are thinking, 'What is so special about having a pet around the house?' Let me tell you, pets can have a very positive impact on your life. Yes, I understand there are costs associated with it, but doesn't everything in our life have cost? Think of it in a positive way and consider the rewards from the experience of having a pet.
If you have small children, having fish would be the best. If you teach your children how and when to feed the fish and help them clean the tank once a while, that would just do the trick. Of course you will have to keep at a height to keep your children from putting their hands in the tank. If you have older children, (10 years and above), small dogs are wonderful companions for both you and your children. Your children will learn to be responsible for the pet. Grooming and other things associated with it will still need some adult supervision, till your children are confident enough to handle the chore by themselves.
Gradually you and your children will develop a close relationship with your pet. Your children will learn a thing or two about time management, caring and also about nurturing another being. Of course you will have to remind them that animals, like humans, need food, drink and regular exercise. You being your children's role model, they will learn to be responsible and develop pet ownership from you.
I know you must be thinking, 'Why am I advocating for a pet, when life is already tough?' I understand your logic, but the advantage of having a pet is multifold. Research has shown that children raised with pets develop positive feelings about pets, which contributes to raising a child's self-esteem and self-confidence. That in turn helps them develop positive relationship with a pet, leading to the development of trusting relationships with others. At the same time children develop non-verbal communication skills, compassion and empathy.
Especially for children, pets can be wonderful social facilitators. A pet itself can be a social object for children, because of the nature of their relationship. And because animals accept us for who we are, pets give some practice in social relationship-building. Pets facilitate various aspects of emotional development such as self-esteem and a sense of responsibility. As children grow, they may develop an interest in a specific animal. This will spark a desire to learn more about their favorite pet, thus encouraging a child's cognitive development. Pets provide motivation for running and practicing motor skills. Having a dog automatically introduces a component of physical activity in your child's life.
Pets serve as a special friend, who does not spill your secrets, talk back or yell at you. Hence they are often the safe recipients of your child's secrets, and private thoughts. You will find your children often talking to their pets, just like they do with their toys. Dogs often become your child's partner in a game or even in mischiefs. Pets also provide lessons about life and being alive: reproduction, birth, illnesses, accidents, death, and bereavement.
Caring for pets makes children responsible for their behavior and they learn to respect other living beings. A pet fulfills unaddressed physical and emotional needs of your child. Physical activity, comfort of contact, love, loyalty and affection that develops on having a pet is part and parcel of the deal. The act of grooming and petting their little friend will create an emotional bond between your child, you and your pet that will last a long time.
Finally, experts have found children who keep pets healthier and more emotionally balanced. Majority of youngsters regard their pet as a playmate and friend who can be a source of comfort when they feel sad. If you decide to get a pet, choosing one that is right for your family, your home, and your lifestyle and one that your child can help care for. In Nepal the majority of people keep dogs as pets. Getting them while they are small is the best. Yes parents will have to devote some time to the pet, but imagine the pleasure that it will bring to your child. Of course the smile on your child's face is worth a million. Don't you think so?
The author is an educationist and author of several children's books
usha@pokharel.net
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