At Tillys Fern Bay our Toddler Tribe and Preschool tribes have recently had some new pets join their rooms. The Toddlers now have three pet hermit crabs Shelly, Sandy and Spiky. While our preschool friends have had some stick insects join their tribe.
Through caring for their new pets the children are learning to care and respect other living things.
Having pets in our rooms can greatly add to children’s development.
Judit Horvath stated ”Exotic creatures may fire young children’s imaginations, but even humble domestic pets can greatly benefit their development” and Davis states “owning a pet in pre-adolescents builds self esteem, higher levels of self concept and autonomy”.
Early Years Framework Outcomes
2.4 Children become socially responsible and show respect for the environment
3.1 Children become strong in their social and emotional wellbeing
4.2 Children develop a range of skills and processes such as problem solving, inquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating
Learning Area STEM
National Quality Area Physical Environment
