Classroom Pets

HAving a pet in a preschool classroom teaches children a lot. it teaches them about caring for another life. It teaches them what someone else needs to be happy and healthy (and reinforces the four things needed in a habitat: food, water, shelter, and a place to raise babies). It teaches young children to be gentle and respectful when petting the animal.

The most successful preschool pet we have had by far has been rats. We have had a rabbit (scared and very sharp toenails); birds (can't really hold a bird, and are they ever messy!); and a guinea pig (they also don't really like to be held). We do have a cage full of walking sticks, but I wouldn't really call them pets.

The rats like to be held, once they are tamed. They are curious and gentle creatures. They seldom bite, unless they have been mistreated or accidentally trained to nibble fingers. They are really nocturnal animals, but they are smart and curious enough to come out when they hear us in the classroom. They come over and sniff, and stand on their hind feet, asking for treats or to be held.

These Penguin children (1-2 year olds) love when Flower comes out to visit. Her sister, Pink, is not as friendly and prefers to stay in her little house.