Pet Helpers - For Kids
Teacher's Pet Foster Program
Teacher's Pet Foster Program
Pets and kids are a natural match! And there’s something special about that connection. Research supports the idea that animals can provide tremendous benefits to kids, even in the classroom!
Which is why the Teacher’s Pet Foster Program is the perfect addition to many classrooms. From improved attendance, increased self-esteem, improved social skills and a decrease in student anxiety, adding an animal to the classroom is a positive experience, for both students and teachers alike.
What kind of animals are part of the Teacher’s Pet Program? Teachers can request to foster guinea pigs, rabbits or chinchillas (animal availability varies) for a quarter or half-semester. Pet Helpers will provide everything you need to care for the animal(s) including a cage, water and food dispensers, bedding, toys and food.
Whether it is math (“How much does a rabbit weigh?”), science (“What does a chinchilla eat?”), or grammar (“What words would we use to describe a guinea pig?”) students will approach learning all these subjects with a new enthusiasm and interest. Want to get started or learn more about the Teacher’s Pet Program? Please email HumaneEd@pethelpers.org to get involved!
Why Bring A Pet In The Classroom?
Teachers can enhance their students’ educational and personal development through interaction with pets. According to data from research studies as well as teacher feedback, interacting with a classroom pet can:
- Increase student engagement
- Facilitate student responsibility
- Teach empathy and compassion
- Develop social skills
- Improve students’ self-esteem
- Decrease necessary disciplinary measures
What Is Expected?
Our Humane Educator will bring the animal into the classroom and introduce the pet to the class, educating students on it’s behavior and care. Students will be able to ask questions and prepare to learn their role in caring for the animal.
Pet Helpers not only provides all the necessary supplies to care for the animal(s), but will also provide a training manual for their care.
Classroom pets are available for adoption after the Teacher’s Pet Foster Program participation has concluded. This is a great opportunity for students, their families, or even school staff to help these animals find a loving home. Some may even choose to adopt the pet themselves!
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