Animals in the classroom are not uncommon. Many classrooms have pets that the children care for through cleaning and feeding. The benefits are insurmountable. They contribute to Math class, Science, English and even Geography. In addition, they make learning fun and meaningful.
Classroom critters enrich the classroom. Also, they contribute to a student’s emotional well-being. Findings from the American Educational Research Association Open states how animals reduce anxiety and stress. Also, a student’s motivation and social interaction increases.
Animals Suited For The Classroom
Certain animals are better suited for the classroom than others. Small animals are the best.
• Gerbils – These animals are active and entertaining. Additionally, they are awake during the daytime when students are in school.
• Rats – Basically, rats are clean pets. They are intelligent and social. Also, they are kid friendly and curious. However, they move quickly as they socialize. Thus, younger children may be frightened.
• Rabbits – A good classroom animal because it needs daily exercise. Like rats, they are also social. However, they chew.
• Guinea Pigs – These are quiet and calm animals. And, they are active during the day when classes are in session. Their needs are very basic. All they require are vegetables and clean water.
There are many other animals that are suited for the classroom. The American Humane Society states many benefits to the animals as well as to the students and teachers.
Service Animals in the Classroom
Service animals have been in classrooms for several years. They have many benefits to the classroom as a whole as do classroom pets.
Service animals provide comfort to special needs students. Also, they provide focused interaction with all students including the teacher. It’s said that therapy animals stimulate memory and problem-solving skills.
For students with an anxiety disorder, a therapy animal will lift a student’s mood as well as the mood of other students in the classroom. Many of the animal’s actions initiate laughter with their presence.
Today, classroom animals aren’t just for fun or therapy. They have a positive impact on student learning.
