Critter Alley

Critter Alley

Monday, May 6, 2013

Teach Our Children Well


















May 5 - 11 is Be Kind to Animals Week, sponsored by the American Humane Association. This special week has been recognized since 1915 and commemorates the important part that animals play in our lives. It's a time to encourage other people, especially children, to show kindness and respect for all creatures.

I really believe every child starts out loving animals. Then something happens along the way that impacts how they view them. Perhaps an unsupervised incident caused trauma, fear, or anxiety. Maybe a child grew up in an atmosphere that promoted the belief that animals are merely disposable creatures that do not think, communicate, or feel pain...and therefore are unworthy of compassionate treatment.

Does it matter what children believe? I think so.

If we can nurture in each child a culture that embodies the concept of respect for all living things, benefits will abound. For when children become compassionate adults, the world becomes a happier, healthier, and safer place.

Is there something you can do to show kindness?

"I am only one; but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do. ~ Helen Keller

8 comments:

Two French Bulldogs said...

This is a good reminder!
Benny & Lily

Lassiter Chase and Benjamin said...

I didnt know there was a be kind to animals week. Thanks.

Donna Volkenannt said...

Pets add so much joy to a child's life. Your Helen Keller quote is perfect for this post.

Unknown said...

Great reminder to us all. Have a terrific Tuesday.
Best wishes Molly

Sketching with Dogs said...

What a great idea to have be kind to animal week. The best gift you can give a child is to teach them to love and respect animals.
Lynne x

Linda O'Connell said...

Well said! Animals are fur babies in my opinion.

Ryker said...

I certainly got my love of animals from my parents. And I am very grateful!

Lisa Ricard Claro said...

Thanks for the timely reminder that our kids do watch and learn. Having a furry companion in the home while children are young is a good way to teach them about kindness and responsibility, and it offers a loving home to the pets, as well. We've always fur-babies in our home (2 dogs and 3 cats right now) and I can't imagine life without our furry kids. They give us more than we can ever hope to give them.