Pets in the Classroom

I wanted to post today about a wonderful opportunity from an organization called "Pets in the Classroom".  This organization works with large pet store chains such as "Pet Smart" and "Petco" to provide grants for teachers to purchase or sustain pets in their classroom.

We have hermit crabs as pets in my classroom, and I was awarded a grant this year that purchased a new tank, food, and two new crabs.  I plan on applying for the grant again to help offset the cost of having pets.  Honestly, the cost of maintaining crabs really isn't that great, but as with any pet, there is initial set up costs.  The grant year re-opens August 1st so make sure you apply early!

The hermit crabs really do add a lot to my classroom - they teach responsibility, coping with death, and the joys of interacting with animals. 

The "Pets in the Classroom" website provides reasons why having a classroom pet is an enriching experience:

•Even kids with no exposure to animals or nature in their home environment can see, feel, touch and make connections to the wide world of animals.
•Observing and caring for an animal instills a sense of responsibility and respect for life.
•A pet brings increased sensitivity and awareness of the feelings and needs of others—both animals and humans.
•Kids learn that all living things need more than just food and water for survival.
•Students will see directly how their behavior and actions affect others.
•Studies show that the presence of animals tends to lessen tension in the classroom.

 

 Darth Crab

The hermit crabs, Darth Crab & Boba Crab (are you really shocked they have names from Star Wars?) come home with me for the summer, and I think my cat enjoys the company.  They don't have the range of their huge cage at school, but spend the summer digging in the sand and climbing up the sides of their cage.  I'm sure they are getting excited to get back into the classroom! :)