What are the benefits of having a classroom pet in an early elementary classroom?
The research question posed was: “What are the benefits of having a classroom pet in an early elementary classroom?” According to our findings, having a classroom pet makes students feel more at ease, reduces stress, encourages healthy development of caring and empathetic relationships, and increases compassion. In regards to other areas of development, having a classroom pet increases student self-efficacy, increases responsibility, promotes healthy social interactions, enhances self-esteem and feelings of self-worth, and reduces egocentrism. Some challenges to having a classroom pet include student allergies, taking care of the pet on weekends and holidays, licensing regulations, school policies, and health and safety liabilities. In connection to theories of education and child development, having classroom pets encourages industry rather than inferiority according to Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development. In Erikson’s theory, there are eight different crises, and the developmental crisis that affects early elementary aged students is known as Industry vs. Inferiority. The crisis of Industry vs. Inferiority involves whether a student has confidence in their abilities or if they feel incompetent and doubtful. Having a classroom pet allows students to demonstrate their ability to take care of something else and to be responsible, thus encouraging them to identify with the industry side of the crisis.
EDUC 330, Child Development
Brian Kaelin
L203, poster #6
10 AM – Noon