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| |    Pets for Elementary School Children by Susan E. Davis reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P. By the time they're in elementary school, most children have enough emotional and physical control to no longer pose mortal threats to your pets. (Especially active or rebellious kids, however, may need a few more years to mature.) Children of this age group often make very passionate attachments to their pets and may want to read books or write reports about the breed or species who lives in their home. You can encourage this hobby by subscribing to a children's animal magazine (like Ranger Rick or the Humane Society of the United States' KindNews), or helping your child find animal-oriented websites (try www.nahee.org and look for the kids' page or www.aspca.org/jfk/ for the "Animaland" section). Ready, willing, and able Children of this age also are able to take on more responsibility. Depending on the child's age, an appropriate chore might be to walk or play with the dog (to exercise it), brush the cat, clean the fish tank or gerbil cage, feed the bird, or keep the water bottle filled. As with any age child, however, parents will need to supervise to make sure the chore is done regularly and correctly. Broadening their reach Older school-age children can even get involved with training or showing an animal--with a parent's help, of course. Both the American Kennel Club and the American Cat Fanciers Association offer opportunities for young children to get involved showing their animals. 4-H clubs across the country also have programs that teach children how to care for animals and give them opportunities to show them at fairs and other events. Similarly, both the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts offer badges in animal care for elementary-age scouts. Most local shelters and rescue organizations welcome volunteer help from this age group, as long as the children are accompanied by an adult. This gives your child a chance not only to learn more about animal husbandry, but also to contribute to the community and learn the value of volunteering. In the same vein, some zoos offer camps that allow children to learn about wild animals and the importance of humane treatment and conservation.
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