CHRISTMAS AROU
If you’ve ever watched your child light up around a dog or cat, you know how special that connection can be. Pets bring joy, comfort, and plenty of laughter into a home. But as sweet as those moments are, kids don’t always know how to handle animals safely. With these six tips, children can learn how to be safe and caring friends to the animals in their lives. Ask before you pet. Always ask first. This is one of the most important lessons to teach a kid. Whether it’s a family pet or a dog at the park, kids should get permission from an adult before approaching. This habit prevents unwanted surprises and teaches children that animals deserve the same respect as people when it comes to personal boundaries. Create calm introductions. Excited little hands often want to rush in for hugs, but that can overwhelm an animal. Encourage your child to let the pet sniff their closed hand before petting. Start with gentle strokes along the back or shoulders, steering clear of tails, ears, or paws. Showing kids how to move slowly and softly makes the experience safer for everyone. Recognize animal body language. Children may not realize when a pet is uncomfortable. Teach them to notice cues like a tucked tail, growling, or a dog pulling away. These signs mean “I need space.” By framing it as listening to what the animal is “saying,” kids learn to pay attention and respond with empathy. Respect quiet time. Pets need rest just like kids. If a dog is eating, chewing on a toy, or curled up in their bed, that’s their private time. Explain that interrupting can make a pet feel protective or grumpy. A simple rule of “if the pet is busy, give them their space” can keep everyone safe. HELPING KIDS UNDERSTAND BOUNDARIES WITH PETS Pets Aren’t Toys
A TOUR OF GLOB
Christmas looks different no matter where you go, but the heart of it stays the same. Here in the U.S., we picture trees, stockings, and maybe a big family dinner with turkey or ham and all the trimmings. But travel a little, and you’ll find the same spirit expressed in completely different ways. Across Europe, December streets glow with light and song. In Germany, market stalls line old squares where neighbors trade gifts and sip mulled wine to keep out the chill. In Italy, children look forward to La Befana, a friendly old woman who visits homes on Jan.
5 to leave sweets and small gifts. Iceland has its Yule Lads, 13 playful characters who stop by Icelandic homes one at a time on the days leading up to Christmas.
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Avoid excitement around pets. Running, yelling, or rough play can trigger a pet’s instincts and cause accidents. Encourage your child to move calmly and use an indoor voice when interacting
with animals. If they feel nervous, teach them to stand still, fold their arms, and wait for the adult to step in. Always supervise young children. No matter how well-behaved your pet is, children younger than 5 should never be left alone with animals. Supervision allows you to step in quickly if things get too rowdy and to model the right way to show care.
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