How to Teach Your Child to Respect Animals

It would be a wonderful world if all people showed love and respect for animal life. Unfortunately, our animal friends don't always get the high regard they deserve as evidenced by the reports of animal abuse and cruelty that frequently make the news. Because a healthy respect for animal life is learned at an early age, it's important to know how to teach children to have respect for animal life and welfare. What is the best way to instill a child with a healthy respect for animals and when should you start?

The process of teaching children to respect animals should come as soon as a child begins to understand language. Taking your young child on a nature walk and pointing out different animal species is an excellent way to not only promote respect for animals but can also help your child develop language skills more quickly. Nature walks can be supplemented with photos of animals from books that your child can enjoy.

As your child begins to walk and talk, you can start exposing him more directly to animal life under supervised conditions. It may be helpful to take your child to a dog park or pet store that allows pets to be brought in on leashes for your child to see. Show your child the proper way to pet a dog or cat under close supervision and praise him when he touches the animal in a gentle manner.

Another way to indoctrinate respect for animals into your child is to read him books and stories about animals. Be sure to choose books that depict animals being treated in a humane and loving manner. Exposing your child to certain programs on animals and nature channels can help him develop a love and respect for animals.

At what age should a child be given the opportunity to own a pet? It's probably best to wait until your child is able to participate in the care of a pet before choosing to bring a new animal into your home. When your child reaches the point where he is capable of taking responsibility for some aspects of pet care, make sure that you choose a child friendly pet. Show your child the proper way to care for his new pet and let him know that his pet is dependent on him. Allow your child to help with the care and feeding of his pet under your supervision until he's old enough to assume responsibility on his own. Keep in mind that a child should never be left unattended with a new pet.

By educating your child early and exposing him in a supervised manner to animals of all types, he can develop an understanding of the important role that animals play in our lives as well as how to love and respect all animal life.