The benefits of pets for kids are infinite. Furry friends can teach children about affection, empathy, and nonverbal communication.
Many daycare children aged three and up demand independence. A daycare-friendly pet will help them gain autonomy through a loving relationship. It’s also a great way to cultivate responsibility and accountability in young learners.
We can introduce you to three endearing daycare pets if you're up for it.
Here they are:
1. Pawed Pals: Dogs
Children can have a lot of fun if you bring a cute pup to the daycare. The kids will have a furry friend to cuddle, love, and look after. Plus, everyone will be motivated to take the dog for a walk. You won’t have to coerce the tots for physical activity and exercise.
When choosing a dog, consider the temperament, social skills, and shedding rate. According to Reader’s Digest, the best dogs for kids include Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Labrador, Beagle, and Bichon Frise.
2. Clawed Companions: Cats
Cats are curious, playful, and occasionally cuddly. Kids love running around kitties, so bringing one to the daycare center can be an excellent idea. Ensure that the breed you pick isn’t shy and can stay clawed when children play with it.
PetMd recommends calm cat breeds such as the ragdoll, Maine coon, and Himalayan cats for children. You may consult local animal shelters to find available choices in your area. Learn food and maintenance requirements too. That way, you’ll know whether bringing a feline to the center will be feasible in the long run.
3. Furry Friends: Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs make for adorable companions for little kids. They are small, cuddly, and oodles of fun. In addition to their friendly behavior, they are low maintenance. They look after themselves and don’t smell as much as hamsters.
Plus, you won’t have to make lots of space if you plan to keep them at the center.
Bonus Buddies: What Other Daycare-Friendly Pets Can You Keep?
Dogs, cats, and even guinea pigs can be a handful sometimes. Fish and birds are much more manageable options if you’re short on space. Rabbits are also a good, friendly choice depending on your resources.
Are you planning to adopt a daycare pet? Introduce your toddlers and preschoolers to pets beforehand. Shop at our online store for interactive lessons about pets. We also have weekly lesson plans for insects, zoo animals, nocturnal animals, etc. You can access them right here.
Perks of Pawed Pals: The Benefits of Pets for Kids
Children raised around pets benefit from their presence.
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry encourages pet ownership for families and in daycare settings. They highlight how fostering animal love can enhance a children’s interpersonal skills. It develops compassion, empathy, and strong communication capabilities. Children love talking to pets and can learn to respect other living things through these interactions.
Moreover, the BBC revealed the mental health benefits of pets for kids. According to its research, taking care of family pets (and daycare pets) can boost brain development in children. Ownership helps raise their self-esteem, confidence, and independence.
Additionally, it teaches toddlers and preschoolers to build a strong connection with nature.
That said, daycare-friendly pets come with health and safety risks. The CDC resource center shares guidelines. Implement tips on daycare management when you have furry friends running around to make these interactions joyful for children.
Ready to Adopt a Daycare Pet?
Dogs, cats, and guinea pigs make the best daycare-friendly pets for toddlers and preschoolers. They are cuddly, affectionate, and social. Always ensure you choose the correct breed for childcare and have a manageable setup ready for the pet(s).
If you don’t have space, you can opt for a low-maintenance pet such as a fish or a bird. Alternatively, you can limit furry companionship by scheduling monthly visits.
That way, you can reap the benefits of pets for kids without disrupting the decorum of your daycare center. You may also schedule trips to a zoo or farm for older children enrolled in your facility.
Have questions? Get all the answers by becoming a Standout Daycare member. Check our price plans and membership benefits to learn more.
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