Class Pets Teach Students Many Things

While having a dog or cat is regarded as a natural part of childhood, homeless children rarely get to have pets.  For families in poverty, it is difficult enough just to feed and house the family, so pets are a luxury that homeless children miss. 

“I was told quite honestly by a 4^th grader here at Positive Tomorrows that it didn’t make sense to have a pet,” said April Doshier, director of development.  “You would just have to leave it when you move.”

At Positive Tomorrows, class pets are viewed as an important educational tool.  Children need to learn how to nurture and love another living thing.  Using a class pet is an easy way to teach that to our students.

Also, according to Myriah Walker, assistant kindergarten teacher, many of the core skills taught to kindergarten students can be taught using class pets. 

“Students can learn to observe, measure, listen and describe what is happening with their little class friend,” said Walker.  “We’re hoping to be able to purchase a leopard gecko for the class this year.” 

According to Doshier, the cost of the pet is not in the Positive Tomorrows budget.

“The total expense of everything we need works out to about $200” said Doshier.  “We’re hoping someone will step up and make a donation above their normal giving amount to help us purchase this important classroom resource.”

To make a gift towards the purchase of a gecko or to support the many other initiatives at Positive Tomorrows, visit our secure giving site and reference this story. 

Click here to make a gift toward the purchase of the kindergarten class pet.

1. 

   Lynda Fredrickson says:

   January 21, 2011 at 10:13 am

   I have a 10 week old Golden Retriever puppy that I’d be happy to bring to visit the school. I volunteer at Stanley Hupfeld Academy and mentor a 2nd grade boy. He has enjoyed meeting Bodhi and I am bringing the dog to his class.

   If this doesn’t fit in with your objectives, I understand but did want to offer. I hope to schedule a visit to the school and learn more, having just recently moved to OKC from Seattle.
   Lynda
2. 

   Susan says:

   January 26, 2011 at 4:09 pm

   Lynda, thanks for your offer. We actually work with several therapy dog owners, so we’re pretty well covered there. And we love to do tours anytime. Please call us at 405-556-5082 to set something up.