Caring for a Pet Including children in caring for a pet can be a positive experience. It teaches children valuable lessons.
Abiding by the decision to take care of a pet teaches young children accountability. When they agree to share the responsibilities, they become
liable for their pet's livelihood. The 2011-2012 National Pet Owners Survey reported that "as many as 58 percent of pet owners claimed that caring
for their pets taught their children responsibility." There are many age-appropriate tasks that young children can help parents with such as feeding or
putting a pet's toys away. Laura Kang a parent states, "Sometimes even my most responsible daughter makes mistakes, but I turn these moments
into educational ones by coming up with a plan together for how to do better next time."
These caregiving tasks also teach children the importance of taking ownership for their actions. Tina Smith, a well-known family counselor,
suggests that showing how children's actions help pets should be celebrated when done right." Another parent, John Wiggin, agrees: "Consequences
for not following through with duties should not be a punishment but instead be a teaching
moment to help children understand the importance of
their responsibility." Their tasks play a huge part in keeping their pet healthy and happy.
Some argue that owning a dog is too much work for a child, but the hard work involved is worth the time and effort in the long run. It builds self-
confidence and self-esteem that last into their adulthood.
3
Select the correct answer.
Which statement from the passage supports the idea that young children are capable of helping to care for a pet?
OA. Including children in caring for a pet can be a positive experience.
ОВ. There are many age-appropriate tasks that young children can help parents with such as feeding or putting a pet's toys away.
Ос. When they agree to share the responsibilities, they become liable for their pet's livelihood
OD. Their tasks play a huge part in keeping their pet healthy and happy.
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