Attention, dog magic, or how interaction with a dog affects students' cognitive functions
We know that dog therapy plays an important role in the development of children, especially at an early age. That's why it is one of the activities at our school. What skills and functions do we try to develop through these classes?
Contact with a dog helps develop an emotional bond, as well as the ability to recognize and express feelings. Children who participate in dog therapy often demonstrate increased empathy, better ability to regulate emotions, and a greater sense of security.
Playing with dogs helps children develop social skills such as communication, cooperation, and building relationships. These are very important skills in the school community. Joint tasks and activities with a dog encourage children to establish contacts with others and overcome possible social barriers.
Dog therapy has a positive effect on cognitive functions such as concentration, memory and abstract thinking. Exercises with a dog, e.g. teaching commands, develop the ability to focus and think logically.
The presence of a dog acts as a natural reducer of stress and anxiety levels in children. Physical activity with a dog, such as walking or playing, significantly reduces emotional tension and improves the child's well-being.
For many children, working with a dog is very motivating and engaging. The desire to learn skills to communicate and interact with a dog can encourage children to engage in learning and develop their skills.
Dog therapy is also an effective therapeutic tool for children with various difficulties, such as autistic disorders, ADHD or emotional trauma. Cooperation with a dog facilitates the therapeutic process and accelerates progress in treatment.
We diversify our classes with elements that also develop fine motor skills. During classes, children create a dog-shaped mosaic using, for example, pasta and coffee. Thanks to the presence of the animal, we observe that they are more engaged in the task at hand and perform it more efficiently.
Such a large number of advantages of dog therapy speak in favor of conducting classes, especially at an early age of a child. This is one of the children's favorite activities at our school.
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