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One of my favorite memories when I was younger revolved around visiting our local pet store, which had a display of puppies in the storefront window. I was around five or six years old & I simply could not contain my enthusiasm whenever I would see them. My heart would fill with so much love that I'd often get teary-eyed when it was time to go home.

Now I had never owned a dog before I began visiting the little pups so why did I feel such a connection to them? I think there are several reasons why young children love learning about all different types of animals.

~ Household pets / Domesticated animals

From an early age children are introduced to animals via their own living environment. Even if a particular child doesn't own a pet, there is usually a relative, friend, or neighbor who has one. Dogs & cats reign supreme in this area & are the most common type of pet a young child may interact with.

In my opinion I find children are truly fascinated by the idea of living with an animal who cannot speak to them, but yet they are still able to form a relationship with them. Another major reason has to do with the notion of caring for another living creature. Children are capable of recognizing from an early age that their Mommy & Daddy are the people who love them & take care of them. This translates into children modeling themselves after the roles of their parents. The end result leaves young kids pretending that they are in charge of the animal. A sense of pride begins to form & this has a wonderfully positive impact on the child's outlook concerning animals in general. And let's face it...there's nothing better than hanging out with your best buddy in the whole world!

~ Wild animals / Zoo animals

Through the eyes of a preschooler, a trip to the zoo can be comparable to going on an African safari. There is such an air of excitement when a child is learning about different & exotic animals. Since there are so many various types of animals, kids are almost always able to find one they like & can relate to on some level. I used to love watching the monkeys & the seals when I went to the zoo because they always gave me a good laugh.

Animals are able to bring a smile to a child's face & this leaves children wanting to learn all they can. Animals also have a magical way about them. They are able to exude a sense of compassion, love, & friendship which resonates with all of us, young & old.

Learn more about this author, Angie N..
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