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Pre-school Farm Tours start this week. Some of my favorite moments include a child looking into the beautiful, sensitive eyes of a hog; feeling the soft nuzzle of a cow and stroking a cat as it purrs.
Children recognize the intrinsic value of animals—that simply because they are living creatures, they are important. At the Sanctuary we demonstrate that animals need to be treated with love, empathy and respect, just like humans.
Developing positive feelings about animals can contribute to a child's self-esteem and self-confidence. Positive encounters with animals can aid in the development of trusting relationships with others, and a good relationship with an animal can also help in developing non-verbal communication, compassion, and empathy.
Children can learn to be sensitive to the needs of animals and to recognize these needs without using words. This is an excellent skill to have in dealing with humans who may not be able to express emotions too well themselves.
By spending time with, and observing animals, children can get an understanding and develop an appreciation for the natural world around them. With the right encouragement, it can also lead to an interest in the natural world and an appreciation for all forms of life on earth.
Powerful! See you at a pre-school or Farm Tour soon.