Have an animal, all children in dreams. Why such attraction for animals? Is it a good reason to have an animal at home? Follow the guide…

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1. Entre l’enfant et l’animal, le lien d’amitié peut vite s’installer

Most children like little hairballs like small dogs, small cats, rabbits or guinea pigs. These animals - when they are small - have a reassuring and warm side, which makes them very attractive especially in the eyes of toddlers. Marine Grandgeorge, a researcher specializing in the man-animal relationship, points out that in nine out of ten cases, children cite the animal as a full member of the family.

At the age of 2-3 years, however, a form of fear can be observed with regard to a new animal, for the little child at this period is afraid of unknown things. He can also have sudden gestures: pull the dog's tail, put his fingers in his eyes, express his curiosity.

Then from 4 years old, the child can consider a dog as his friend: want to kiss, caress, sleep with him. It is important to teach the child how to behave with an unfamiliar pet, for example, if he crosses a dog on the street, especially if he is on a lead, teach him not to touch him , But to ask for permission from the owner before caressing him.

2. Much more than a great playmate for the child

The relationship between a child and an animal can not be reduced to a few cuddles or funny little games. Caresses and ball games are important, but a real relationship, a real complicity, is developed between the child and the animal.

The specialists are unanimous in emphasizing that the presence of an animal at home, with a child, develops the sense of responsibility, structures the personality of the child. It calms it, secures it, the structure. It facilitates the development of communication, and attention to others. Hubert Montagner, one of the best specialists in the relationship between the child and the animal, believes that relationships with animals "unlock the inner world of the child, unveil his skills, stimulate his ability to learn , His imagination ". Much more than a playmate, the pet can become its most faithful confidant, but also a true "4-legged educator".

This has been verified in the primary classes which have small animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs or hamsters: "objects of discovery for children, these animals also reveal the potentialities of pupils", assures Hubert Montagner.

3. An animal at home: an educational commitment

If the presence of a child in a home is often the cause of purchase, adoption, a small dog or a small hamster, it must first be a decision and a commitment Education of parents. Because for the child, taking care and being respected of a dog is not innate, it is the result of an apprenticeship to be done little by little. And for parents, acquiring a dog is a true educational process, for example, parents can use the animal to gradually empower their child. They can also use it to explain the life cycles: with the birth of little kittens, or the death of a hamster

Finally, thanks to the animal, the child can also learn to be obeyed: when he leaves the dog, it is important that he has authority over it.

4. Having an animal at home is good for your health!

The presence of a pet is beneficial to health. Several studies have shown the protective effect of the pet for allergies.

If, in the case of asthma, there is often a tendency to avoid the presence of a cat, it is not necessarily the right solution because every asthmatic child has its triggers and the cat is not always one.

5. And it's good for the mind (self-confidence)

The great advantage of dogs and cats compared to buddies, friends, family, is that they do not judge, that they have no bad day behind them and that they are therefore always happy to see people 'they like. They do not care about the appearance of the children, the way they are dressed, the notes they have received at school, they love them. This is invaluable to children, especially when they have doubts.

[source](http://www.vosquestionsdeparents.fr/dossier/1458/entre-les-enfants-et-les-animaux-une-relation-tres-riche)