Thought for the day: Children and pets share a special affinity.

Do you have any children? What about animals? The 26th of April is National Kids and Pets Day. Colleen Paige, a pet-and-family-lifestyle expert, established this day in 2005 to honor the link between children and their dogs.

Pets benefit children in a variety of ways. Pets teach youngsters about animal personalities, pet behavior, and respecting limits, such as not touching pets when they are eating. Pets, like children, do not always want to be carried or have their toys taken away from them. Children can also learn about the life cycle through pets, which includes birth, illness, death, and bereavement.

Children develop responsibility and empathy as a result of their interactions with pets. Even toddlers can brush a pet's coat, keep the water dish filled, feed pets, and put away pet toys with parental supervision. Children that are older can take on more tasks, like as cleaning the cage or litter box. Both children and dogs benefit from positive reinforcement. So, after a child of any age has done a chore, praise them, especially if they did it without being reminded.

Pets are also beneficial to one's health. Children who grow up with healthy dogs have stronger immune systems and are less likely to develop childhood allergies, according to health psychologist Dr. June McNicholas of the University of Warwick. Outdoor sports such as fetch or trekking provide physical fitness benefits. Younger children can walk their dog with an adult, while older children can walk their dog with an adult leading the dog.

Pets can help children develop self-esteem, self-confidence, compassion, and empathy, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families and Youth/Facts for Families/FFF-Guide/Pets-And-Children-075.aspx). Stress and anxiety are reduced by petting a pet or getting a slurpy "kiss." Anyone who has had a difficult day can find consolation, peace, or even delight in a pet's unconditional love and loyalty.

Even children's education can be aided by pets. Because the pet does not correct mistakes, reading to a peaceful pet fosters a love of reading. Children who are comfortable with reading want to read more. It's Cool to Be Kind (http://unleashingyolo.org/cool-to-be-kind/) is a fun way for young readers to learn about animals and how to care for them.

Pets provide numerous benefits to everyone, but especially to children, as many people have discovered during this pandemic. So, on April 26th, National Kids and Pets Day, show your appreciation for all that your unique pet has done to make your life better!

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