Caring for a Pet

Pet care develops responsibility and empathy while teaching children about the needs of living beings.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Care of Environment
• Level: Ages 3-6

Objectives

• Learn animal care
• Develop responsibility
• Build empathy

Materials

• Classroom pet (fish, hermit crab, etc.)
• Food
• Care supplies
• Care chart

Instructions

1. Check pet care chart for tasks. 2. Observe pet for health. 3. Provide appropriate food amount. 4. Check water or humidity. 5. Clean habitat as needed. 6. Handle gently if appropriate. 7. Record care on chart.

Educator tip

Start with low-maintenance pets. Create detailed care schedules. Teach gentle handling and observation.

Assessment

Child completes pet care tasks safely and consistently.

More from Practical Life

• Making a Bed
• Setting the Table
• Clearing the Table
• Washing Dishes
• Drying Dishes
• Sorting Recycling
• Composting Food Scraps
• Spreading with a Knife