View, Do and Read

Family pets can be a child's best friend

By Sandra Andino, WHYY Ready To Learn Coordinator

Kids love Clifford, the big red dog! They love his big round eyes, his big happy smile, his big tail and paws, his friendliness, loyalty, big heart and, most of all, his bright red fur! In general, kids love animals as pets, and they can be a wonderful addition to a household. But, before choosing a pet for your child or children, think about how much space, time and money you have to invest. Once you've decided on a pet such as a dog, cat, fish, bird or hamster, do some research about your animal of choice at a pet shop, animal society, kennel or even your local library. Dogs are cute, playful and small when they're puppies, but just like Clifford -- who is a Labrador retriever -- they can quickly grow big and strong depending on the breed. It is wise to choose a pet the family can manage and that a child can handle and play with care and supervision.

VIEW

Animals as pets can enrich the lives of the family home. The experience of taking care of a pet can enhance a child's quality of life by teaching her about caring, kindness, responsibility, working together, sharing, playing fair, patience and many other valuable qualities. Watch Clifford, The Big Red Dog weekdays on WHYY TV12 at 7:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., and Sundays at 8:30 a.m., and see how Clifford and his friends represent a wide variety of social and emotional experiences that children can relate to through each story segment.

Kids can help take care of their pets when given certain responsibilities that are appropriate for their age. Toddlers and 3 to 5-year-olds can help serve the pet's food; offer a treat to a well-behaved pet; throw or trail a toy for a pet to chase; and gently hold and hug a pet under an adult's supervision. Children who are 6 years old and above can take responsibility for daily feedings with reminders from an adult; keep animals clean by brushing their fur; bath a pet with the help of an adult; clean a pet's cage or litter box; and take a pet out on a leash during a family walk.

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Clifford Board Books by Norman Bridwell

Durable board books of the children's favorite Clifford stories invite the youngest readers into the happy world of Clifford and his friends. These books are also available in Spanish. Recommended for infants to 4 year olds.

Mama Cat has Three Kittens by Denise Fleming

Mama Cat has three kittens: Fluffy, Skinny, and Boris. Whatever Mama Cat does, Fluffy and Skinny are right behind, climbing the wall, digging in the sand and chasing leaves. All Boris seems to do is nap. Will he ever wake up and join the fun? There is a rebel in every crowd, and Boris is sure to charm readers who will recognize themselves in his contrary ways. Recommended for children ages 4 to 6.

PNC Grow Up Great is a proud local sponsor of WHYY's PBS KIDS Ready To Learn service funded by the U.S. Department of Education.