Apply Today

If you are looking for a rewarding career
in online therapy apply today!

APPLY NOW

Sign Up For a Demo Today

Does your school need
Online Therapy Services

SIGN UP

Unlocking the Potential of Companion Animals in Child Development

Unlocking the Potential of Companion Animals in Child Development

Introduction

The bond between children and their companion animals is often considered a source of joy and comfort. Recent research, however, suggests that this relationship might offer more than just emotional support. The study titled Companion animals and child development outcomes: longitudinal and cross-sectional analysis of a UK birth cohort study explores the intricate connections between pet ownership and various developmental outcomes in children. This blog aims to delve into the findings of this research and discuss how practitioners can leverage these insights to enhance child development.

Key Findings of the Study

The research utilized data from approximately 14,000 children in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). It examined the impact of pet ownership on several developmental outcomes, including emotional health, behavioral development, cognitive development, language development, and educational attainment.

Implications for Practitioners

For speech-language pathologists and other child development professionals, these findings offer several implications:

Encouraging Further Research

This study highlights the complexity of the relationship between pet ownership and child development. As practitioners, it's crucial to stay informed about ongoing research and contribute to the body of knowledge through data-driven practices. Consider collaborating with researchers to explore specific questions about how different pets might impact various developmental domains.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Companion animals and child development outcomes: longitudinal and cross-sectional analysis of a UK birth cohort study.


Citation: Purewal, R., Christley, R., Kordas, K., Joinson, C., Meints, K., Gee, N., & Westgarth, C. (2024). Companion animals and child development outcomes: Longitudinal and cross-sectional analysis of a UK birth cohort study. BMC Pediatrics. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12887-024-05049-7
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

Apply Today

If you are looking for a rewarding career
in online therapy apply today!

APPLY NOW

Sign Up For a Demo Today

Does your school need
Online Therapy Services

SIGN UP

Apply Today

If you are looking for a rewarding career
in online therapy apply today!

APPLY NOW

Sign Up For a Demo Today

Does your school need
Online Therapy Services

SIGN UP