Peer reviewed
ERIC Number: EJ709109
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2004-Dec-22
Pages: 6
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0009-4056
EISSN: N/A
On Behalf of Their Animal Friends: Involving Children in Animal Advocacy--Since Time Immemorial, Animals Have Been Serving Human Society in at Least Three Broad Roles--As Teachers, as Healers, and as Companions and Friends
Pattnaik, Jyotsna
Childhood Education, v81 n2 p95 Win 2004
Children and teachers in 750 kindness clubs (organized by the World Society for the Protection of Animals, WSPA) in 32 African countries are actively involved in coordinating rural animal clinics and participate in clinic activities including the treatment of these animals. This article discusses the benefits of child-animal relationships. Children's interest in and attachment to animals transcends time and culture. Therefore, teachers around the world need to steer children's emotional relationship with animals towards meaningful and responsible actions that focus on animal welfare and advocacy. These actions will serve the interests of everyone. Moreover, engagement in these actions will connect children to an inner self that is inherently kind, compassionate, empathic, and justice-oriented. These animal advocacy attitudes and actions also will be reflected in their interactions with fellow human beings and their physical environment. It is important to point out that while animal advocacy themes can be incorporated easily into curriculum standards for various subject areas and grade levels, the purpose of such themes is embedded within the environmental and humanistic purpose of education. As future leaders, teachers, policymakers, and conscientious citizens, children can utilize their training and the spirit of animal advocacy to make this world a better place for all beings.
Descriptors: Advocacy, Children, Foreign Countries, Animals, Altruism, Child Development, Elementary Education, Curriculum Development, Moral Development, Childrens Literature
Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) Subscriptions, 17904 Georgia Ave., Suite 215, Olney, MD 20832. Web site: http://www.acei.org.
Publication Type: Journal Articles
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A