10 Ideas to Teach Kids Compassion Towards Animals

By: Becky Cummings

Kids naturally love the family dog or cat, but what about the pig on the farm or the spider in the bathroom? Yes, even the extra hairy spider hiding in your shower is a living creature deserving of respect and compassion! As adults, we strive to teach our kids to love other people, but are we doing the same for all living things? I have asked myself this question. When I began to homeschool my three children last year, I decided to be more intentional about planting this seed within my children. Here are my top ten ideas to help your children develop more compassion and respect towards all life.

1. Model It

Remember that hairy spider you thought of a moment ago. That spider was real, ridiculously large, and loose in my shower. My cat was about to have it as a snack. But I rescued the spider with a glass jar and released her outside. My kids wondered why I didn’t just take a shoe and end it. I explained that the spider had a right to live. Then I asked them questions. What if she had babies? What would her mom think if she didn’t return?

2. Get into Nature

Hikes, walks, playtime outside helps connect kids back to Earth. There is so much beauty that surrounds us. We can grow numb to it unless we practice being present within it. I love exploring with my kids and watching their curiosity bloom. After a year of weekly hikes, my son went from fearing snakes to actively searching for them. Not only did he learn everything he could about them, but my son also developed a deep respect for their uniqueness.

3. Cook Vegan Foods with your Kids

Kids love to cook; it’s like a science experiment to them! They will usually eat what they make just because they invested in creating it. They will have fun looking up vegan desserts, snacks, main meals, and drinks to make and experiment with new ingredients. Talk to them gently about the beauty of a meal where no harm was done to any animals.

4. Volunteer

Find local places where you can be of service to animals. We are lucky to have many animal sanctuaries near us. We would go to a rescue farm once a week and play with a dog. It was a great way to give him exercise and socialization, while my son began to grasp the struggle some animals face.

5. Give

Many animal shelters have long lists of needs ranging from food to paper towels. Next Christmas or birthday, how about skipping a few toys and using those funds to buy some supplies for a shelter? Have your kids deliver them and experience the joy it will bring. This is one of our favorite holiday traditions. We fill up a carriage at a pet shop, then bring the goodies to our local shelter. The kids feel such pride knowing they are helping animals that need it most.

Nowadays, much television programming is garbage, subconsciously triggering fear and anxiety in children. We must be mindful when we choose our entertainment. I usually put on an animal documentary. My kids enjoy visiting other continents and learning about the creatures of the planet. When children are little, I recommend basic documentaries that are informational. As they get older and more curious, you can share controversial topics. It’s the same with books. There are many non-fiction books out there to help kids understand animal habitats and features. As an author, I have personally written fictional animal books that make kids think about animal treatment. This area is not currently explored much in early children’s literature, as it is a sensitive topic. Gobble Gobble Mr. Wobble and Don’t Share, Ms. Hare are my two titles for ages 3-10 that teach kids compassion towards all animals.

6. If you Choose to Own Pets, Adopt

A pet in your home is one of life’s greatest blessings. They radiate pure love and bring us immeasurable joy. When your family is ready to add a new member, please go to your local shelter. When you research and learn how pet stores get their animals, you will understand this is not an industry you want to support. Many animals are mistreated, used only for reproduction and profit. Take your time and find the right pet through a shelter.

7. Buy Vegan Products

Start to question the items you buy. Ask yourself did an animal need to die or get harmed for this to be made. If the answer is yes, do not buy it. I was buying feather pillows without even thinking about it since they are everywhere. When I began to stop and understand what happened to the birds to make those pillows, I was horrified. I began to question everything from my shoe choices to my facial products. Now we support companies that are compassionate to animals. Since I do it, my kids are naturally doing it as well.

8. Read Books and Watch Documentaries

9. Stop Supporting Zoos, Events, or Activities that Exploit Animals

Giving up zoos was hard for me. I love seeing different animals up close, but cages have always bothered me. A few years ago, we moved to Florida and bought passes to places where we could see animals. As we learned more about animal treatment and our compassion grew, my children asked to not go to those places anymore. Instead, we started seeking outings where we could observe animals in their natural habitat. Now we watch dolphins in the ocean or visit a spring to see manatees.

10. Create Animal-Friendly Spaces

In your yard learn about ways you can encourage wildlife to coexist with you. Involve your children in the process of learning. Visit garden centers and discover what flowers bees and butterflies enjoy, then plant some. Research what you are putting on your lawn to ensure it is safe for your family and the animals that live there. Many natural pest control methods can be used instead of harmful chemicals. Grow your own fruits and vegetables, compost your scraps and explore other ways to reduce your family’s carbon footprint.

We know that all living things are connected. But when we truly begin to feel this unity, it changes everything. No matter where you are in this journey, it is important to realize that everyone is learning at their own rate. I felt much shame and guilt as I understood more, and it took me time to give myself grace. I encourage you to be easy on yourselves and your children as you shift. Small changes over time will make the greatest impact. Parenting is one of the hardest jobs on the planet. I applaud you for wanting to be more mindful of your choices and instill in your children compassion for all life.