Reasons Why Pets Are Good For Children With ADHD

 

 

Raising a child with ADHD can be a handful. However, it is nothing less rewarding for you as a parent. They come with all the excitements and traits in a heightened manner. Instilling healthy control and development skills are vital for their growth. Yet, it is almost never easy to get a child with ADHD to do what you wish.

To tackle this, many doctors recommend parents adopt a pet. Apart from being a furry companion, they also help kids with ADHD in several ways. Let us take a look at them. 

 

1. Reduces stress levels and anxiety

 

When you pet a dog, you feel happy. This is because this particular activity increases serotonin levels and lowers cortisol(stress-inducing hormone) levels in the brain. The same applies to kids with ADHD. These kids naturally show higher emotions than other kids their age. A friendly companion eases their stress and helps them find comfort in times of emotional episodes. 

 

2. Teaches responsibility

 

Children feel a level of connection and responsibility to their pets. A dog, for example, follows a routine for its daily activities. When your kid takes the charge, they learn to do things on time along with the pet. It helps them understand boundaries and improve their focus. Which counteracts the ADHD and facilitates their learning developmental skills. 

 

3. Provides physical exercise

 

According to a study, children with ADHD showed better attention and impulse control after a short exercise session. And, pets love nothing more than engaging in playful physical activities. Specially trained dogs can help provide your child with the right amount of physical exercise every day. Which will eventually help them thrive in the future. 

 

4. Offer the much-needed companionship

 

At our Avenue Road Child Care in Toronto, we understand how important it is for a child to have emotional support. Most pets do too. They can recognize your child’s emotions and react accordingly to soothe them. And, a pet will never judge your child. It will always be there for them no matter what they do. Most kids with ADHD feel disconnected from others because of a lack of deep understanding. With a pet, however, they feel comforted and connected. 

 

Finally…

 

Having a pet is only one part of the solution. Continued love, guidance, and support from every environment you place your kid in is vital. If you suspect that your kid might have ADHD, consult an expert immediately.