Features

Early years in schools: How pets can support wellbeing

Classroom pets are having a transformative impact on children's social and emotional development at one primary school in Leeds, Nicole Weinstein discovers
Reception children with their rabbit, Fudge
As well as helping children develop empathy, build confidence and ease their transition to school, the presence of pets also enhances the sense of wellbeing and enjoyment for both children and teachers.

Four-year-old Sandra (name changed) arrives at school each morning and heads straight to the rabbit hutch to let Fudge the school bunny out for a run in the Reception garden. She gives the hutch a quick clean, fills Fudge's water bottle and gently strokes him, talking to him as she goes about her daily routine.

Fudge has been instrumental to Sandra's transition to primary school. ‘Six weeks ago at the beginning of term, she was anxious and struggled to separate from her mother,’ explains Carol Bartle, head of early years at Gateways School in Leeds. ‘But when she showed an interest in Fudge, we asked her to help us with his morning routine and she now willingly comes to school with a purpose in mind and has a calm start to the day.’

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