“A request to have a pet is worth fulfilling if you are ready to take responsibility for the situation, no matter how it turns out,” advises child psychologist Irina Mlodik.
“Your son or daughter literally with tears begs to have a puppy, swears to feed him, walk with him, wash the floor in the hallway twice a day, pull up math and English, and generally study for one five. What parent wouldn’t take their breath away from such a prospect! In addition, you yourself remember how in childhood you dreamed of a devoted shaggy friend …
There are many chances that the appearance of a pet will bring a lot of joy and benefit to all members of your family. Communication with a pet can even more unite adults and children, fill their lives with common interests, activities and shared emotions. Such an experience teaches the child to empathize, to care for those who need it, to be more disciplined, to take responsibility — in a word, to become more mature.
But your common sense tells you that the situation could turn out differently. And you should be ready for this. After all, new, unusual, not at all pleasant, but inevitable duties can cause a child — a preschooler or a primary school student — to feel confused. If he is left alone with these duties (and will hear the reproaches of his parents for not fulfilling them), confusion and guilt may follow. And you certainly shouldn’t expect anything good from this.
You make the decision to adopt a pet together, and adults also need to be prepared for the appearance of a new family member — with all the circumstances that follow from this event. Therefore, it is better to soberly assess your own strengths and capabilities. And maybe, calmly and firmly say no, sincerely and honestly explaining your refusal. After all, it is your role to help your child learn to keep his promises and put effort into fulfilling his responsibilities.