Prioritizing Kindness to Animals
Kindness is a universal language, and when extended to animals, it fosters empathy, responsibility, and a deeper connection to the world around us. As a bonus, research keeps showing us that spending time with animals helps us to reduce stress and may even boost immunity.
I had the opportunity to visit my sister-in-law this past month and saw two of her beautiful rescue horses out in California. Watching my children engage with these majestic creatures reminded me just how powerful it can be for children to interact with animals. There are so many skills that can be learned from our animal friends that help us interact mindfully in the world.
Animals enrich our lives in countless ways, offering companionship, joy, and unconditional love. Teaching children to extend kindness to animals not only nurtures their compassion but also instills values that last a lifetime.
With gratitude,
—MiaLisa Millares, Executive Director
ACTION
Create Pet Toys.
One way to show kindness to animals is to create a fun toys for the animals to play with. Check out this fun and easy way to create pet toys. You can craft the toys at home and then donate them to a shelter. This is a fun way to engage with animals and show kindness this fall!
Get into the kitchen with the family and enjoy baking some fun treats for your furry friends! This family fun activity is one that you can do with your kids, as a family, or with the neighborhood. Once you have your treats, share them around with the community!
Foster Animals.
Do you have the ability and space to provide a temporary home for animals in need? If so, this might be the perfect opportunity for you to show kindness to animals this September. Learn more about how you can foster an animal this month.
Advocate for Animals.
One of the kindest things to do is to speak up for those who cannot speak up for themselves. This fall, you can advocate for animals using these simple ideas that teach kids to stand up for animals through art and letters to officials.
Volunteer with Your Family.
Check out incredible volunteer listings to find opportunities to spend time at shelters or participate in programs like reading to animals.
CONVERSATIONS
What do you think animals need to feel happy and safe?
How do you think animals show their feelings?
How can we show kindness to animals in our daily lives?
Have you ever helped an animal? How did it feel?
Why do you think it’s important to protect endangered animals?
How can we inspire others to be kind to animals?
READ
Check out our list of books for animal lovers!
INSPIRATION
"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
—Mahatma Gandhi