Children who grow up with Emotional Support Animals are less likely to get allergies and asthma. They learn responsibility, compassion and empathy by having a dog or cat.
Unlike parents or teachers, Emotional Support Pets never criticize or give orders. They are always loving, and their mere presence at home can help children find a sense of security. A constantly present pet can alleviate children’s fear of separation when mom and dad aren’t around.
The love and companionship of a pet can help a child feel valued and develop a positive self-image. Children who are emotionally attached to their pets build better relationships with other people.
Many studies have shown that Emotional Support Pets can help calm hyperactive or overly aggressive children. Preferably, both the animal and the child should be trained in proper behavior with each other.
An Emotional Support Animal can help develop a young and developing mind by teaching a child empathy and understanding. Children can interact with their pet without fear of rejection, allowing them to build confidence and even expand their vocabulary. Having even a small pet in a cage, such as a guinea pig or hamster, is a great way to teach your child responsibility.
Children can benefit from playing with an Emotional Support Animal. It can be a source of calm and relaxation as well as stimulation for the brain and body. Playing with an animal can even be a doorway to learning for a child. It can stimulate a child’s imagination and curiosity. For example, rewards for teaching a dog a new trick can teach children the importance of perseverance. Caring for a furry friend can bring another benefit to a child: great joy.
Children with learning disabilities and other problems
Some children with autism or other learning difficulties interact better with Emotional Support Animals than with people. Autistic children often rely on nonverbal cues to communicate, just like animals. And being able to make contact with a pet can even help an autistic child communicate with people.
Emotional Support Animals can help children with learning disabilities learn how to regulate stress and calm down, which can help them cope better with the challenges of their disorder. Playing and exercising with a dog or cat can help a child with learning disabilities stay alert and attentive throughout the day. It can also be a great antidote to the stress and frustration of a learning disability.
Get connected with a licensed healthcare professional to obtain an ESA letter
