Why Having a Pet Is Great For Your Child’s Growth

June 2nd, 2025 / By Olivia Maitre

A young boy with short dark hair, wearing a light blue long-sleeved shirt, leans towards a black wicker chair holding a fluffy white cushion. An orange tabby cat sits comfortably on the cushion, looking towards the side. The boy smiles at the camera, his hands gripping the edge of the chair. The background is slightly out of focus, showing a checkered floor and a partially visible door. The scene evokes a sense of warmth and companionship between the child and the cat.

According to a 2021 survey by the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute, 87% of pet owners have experienced improvements in their mental health due to having a companion animal. The same applies to children - it is known that having pets has huge benefits for them, their growth, and their development. In this article, we will delve into how having a pet nurtures empathy and social skills much like how incorporating STEAM in learning sparks curiosity and critical thinking - both essential ingredients for raising well-rounded, capable kids.

The Science Behind Pets and Child Development

Research shows that young children (ages 2–5) from dog-owning families were 23% less likely to have difficulties with their emotions and social interactions than children in non-dog-owning households. Additionally, these children were 30% less likely to engage in antisocial behaviors, 40% less likely to have problems interacting with other children, and 34% more likely to display considerate behaviors such as sharing.

These findings highlight the significant role pets play in child development by fostering emotional intelligence in children and strengthening their ability to build healthy relationships.

Studies also suggest that caring for pets encourages responsibility, patience, and empathy, all of which are crucial for social and emotional growth. Beyond these benefits, having a pet at home can naturally inspire curiosity about animal behaviour, biology, and the environment: key elements of STEAM learning at home. Children often ask questions about their pets, prompting scientific inquiry and hands-on exploration, which are essential for cognitive development. By integrating pet care with STEAM activities, families can create a rich, supportive environment that nurtures both emotional and intellectual growth, helping children develop into well-rounded, inquisitive, and compassionate individuals.

A young boy, likely a toddler, lies on a light brown floor, playfully interacting with a white dog, possibly a Labrador or similar breed. The boy, dressed in dark pants and a dark shirt, hugs and nuzzles the dog. The dog appears relaxed and tolerant of the boy's affection, occasionally licking the boy's head. The scene is indoors, and a partially visible round object, perhaps a cushion or ottoman, can be seen in the top left corner.

Emotional Benefits: Building Empathy, Emotional Intelligence and more

It’s fascinating how pets can teach lifelong lessons to little ones. Caring for pets teaches children empathy, compassion, and emotional development. They teach them how to read body language, understand non-verbal cues, and develop empathy and compassion by observing their pet’s reactions to different situations, according to Children's Hospital Colorado. They also offer a safe space for children to express emotions without judgment. It goes further: studies show that pets help kids manage stress and anxiety while boosting their self-esteem by providing them with unconditional love and acceptance.

As previously mentioned, caring for a pet can also increase a child’s sense of responsibility - we will now delve into how it can help in their ability to take care of others.

Responsibility and Life Skills

Having a pet means feeding, cleaning, and taking care of them. It instills responsibility. Children quickly learn that their pets rely on them for daily needs, which encourages consistency and routine. This hands-on experience teaches valuable life skills such as time management and problem-solving. When kids see the positive impact of their care, like a happy, healthy pet, they gain a real sense of accomplishment. These lessons often extend beyond pet care, helping children become more thoughtful and dependable in other areas of life.

Ultimately, nurturing a pet lays a strong foundation for empathy and responsibility that will benefit them academically and personally for years to come.

An assortment of colorful children's craft and activity items is displayed on a white background. Three felt animal figures, a lion, zebra, and crocodile, stand upright, likely designed as bowling pins. A partially assembled cardboard chameleon, a multicolored ball, small round stampers, an ink pad with a rainbow gradient, and a folded illustrated backdrop depicting a whimsical forest scene with various animals are also included. The arrangement suggests a playful and creative activity kit for children with an animal or jungle theme.

STEAM Learning Opportunities with Pets

Interestingly, STEAM learning and having pets are intricately linked.

Science: Observing animal behaviour, learning about biology and ecosystems.
Technology: Using apps or gadgets to track pet health.
Engineering: Building pet toys or habitats as family projects.
Art: Drawing or crafting pet portraits.
Maths: Measuring food, tracking growth, or budgeting for pet care.

By weaving pets into STEAM learning at home, families can transform everyday moments into engaging educational opportunities. These activities not only reinforce academic concepts but also strengthen family bonds and encourage creativity. Whether it’s designing educational toys for children or working together on a pet-related project, the combination of pets and STEAM offers endless possibilities for hands-on learning and meaningful family bonding activities.

A family of four, including a mother, father, and child, are crouched down in a grassy park with two husky dogs. The parents, wearing yellow shirts and jeans, flank the child who has an arm around each of them. The mother has long brown hair and the father has short dark hair and a beard. Two huskies, one with a gray and white coat and the other with a reddish-brown and white coat, lie on the grass in front of the family. The family and dogs appear relaxed and happy, enjoying their time together outdoors.

Family Bonding and Social Skills

Shared activities like walking, playing, or caring for pets together can significantly strengthen family bonds, creating cherished memories and fostering teamwork. For children who are naturally shy, pets often serve as gentle social bridges, making it easier to interact with peers.

Pets provide a natural conversation starter and can help children become more outgoing, as they practice social skills in a comfortable, low-pressure environment. Observing how pets interact with other animals and people also teaches children valuable lessons about navigating social situations and understanding non-verbal cues. Beyond social benefits, pets, especially dogs, encourage children to be more physically active. Whether it’s running in the park, playing fetch, or going for daily walks, these activities promote a healthy lifestyle while further strengthening the connection between family members and their furry companions.

Tips for Parents: Choosing and Caring for a Family Pet

When choosing a family pet, consider the pet's size, temperament, and how well it fits your family's lifestyle to ensure a harmonious home environment. For families not quite ready for a live pet, alternatives like robotic pets or our STEAM animal boxes offer educational and interactive experiences that nurture empathy and curiosity.

How STEAM Toys Complement Pet Ownership

STEAM toys and kits complement pet ownership by enhancing children's understanding of animals and the natural world through hands-on learning. These educational tools encourage curiosity, scientific thinking, and creativity, making the experience of caring for pets even more enriching. By integrating these toys into daily play, parents can foster a deeper connection between children and their pets while supporting child development. Discover our curated range of STEAM toys designed to inspire learning and fun at home.

Pets offer a variety of invaluable benefits for children's growth, including emotional intelligence, responsibility, social skills, and much more. When combined with STEAM activities, they create a holistic learning environment that nurtures both heart and mind. Parents are encouraged to explore how integrating pets and STEAM can raise well-rounded, curious, and compassionate children. Subscribe to our newsletter for more parenting tips and innovative STEAM ideas to support your child's development.

@Tinkerer 2024