At Kennolyn Camps, we know how special it is for kids and teens to interact with animals. Whether it’s riding horses or spending time with farm animals, these moments offer lasting benefits. But what does science have to say about how animals help young people grow? Here’s why animals are so important for kids and teens’ emotional, physical, and social development.
Spending time with animals helps kids build emotional strength and empathy. Research shows that kids who interact with animals handle stressful situations better and become more emotionally aware. Animals offer a safe, nonjudgmental presence where kids can practice empathy and connect with their own feelings. A study published by the American Psychological Association highlights that children who engage with animals show increased empathy, develop stronger emotional intelligence, and are better at understanding both their own and others’ emotions (American Psychological Association, 2020). Simply put, animals teach kids how to recognize and respond to their feelings – and those of the people around them.
With today’s busy world, kids often face stress from school, social pressures, and more. Studies show that spending time with animals can help lower stress levels. According to research in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, interacting with animals has been found to reduce cortisol (the body’s stress hormone) and boost oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone that promotes calmness (Beetz et al., 2012). For kids and teens, this means that animals can offer a natural way to de-stress. Whether it’s petting a dog, riding a horse, or simply being around animals, these activities provide a soothing way to unwind.
Time spent with animals often means more physical activity – and that’s great for kids’ health! Whether they’re playing fetch, walking a horse, or helping with farm chores, these interactions encourage movement and fitness. Physical activity is key for developing motor skills, strength, and balance. Animal-related activities, like horseback riding, even help improve posture and muscle tone, while getting kids outside and moving. Plus, the bond they form with the animals makes physical activity feel like play, rather than a chore. A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights how outdoor play, including interactions with animals, is essential for children’s physical development (CDC, 2019).
Taking care of animals teaches responsibility – and boosts self-confidence. When kids are given tasks like feeding or grooming animals, they learn the value of consistency and accountability. Research published in Anthrozoös shows that children who care for animals often feel better about themselves and experience a strong sense of accomplishment (Melson, 2001). Caring for animals encourages kids to build routines, solve problems, and take pride in their efforts. With every new skill they master, they grow more confident – and that confidence extends to school and friendships, too.
Animals are a wonderful way to connect kids with the natural world. Kids who spend time with animals often develop a deeper appreciation for nature. A study by the University of Colorado Boulder found that children who interact with animals have a more positive attitude toward environmental conservation (Kellert, 2002). Whether they’re caring for a pet or observing wildlife, animals spark curiosity about the world around us and help kids understand the importance of protecting it. This connection to nature fosters a sense of responsibility toward the environment that can last a lifetime.
At Kennolyn Camps, we offer a variety of opportunities for campers to interact with animals through our Horseback Riding programs and Animal Care activities.
In Animal Care, campers learn how to handle and care for animals, gaining an understanding of responsible pet ownership. Over the years, we’ve worked with a range of animals, including chickens, goats, donkeys, pigs, horses, and cows.
For those interested in spending time with horses but not necessarily riding, our Horse Care program allows campers to walk, bathe, groom, and play with several of Kennolyn’s nearly 25 horses.
Horseback Riding is a beloved tradition at Kennolyn Camps. We offer English riding lessons in the arena and trail rides through the Redwoods. Campers focused on horses can spend most of their time riding, vaulting, and learning horsemanship. A special highlight is the opportunity for some campers to take their horses on an overnight ride.
Additional benefits include:
In conclusion, the benefits of interacting with animals are immense, contributing to emotional, physical, and social growth for kids. At Kennolyn Camps, we provide a unique environment where campers can forge meaningful connections by interacting with animals, learning empathy, building confidence, and gaining hands-on experience in animal care. Whether it’s through horseback riding, grooming, or simply spending time with farm animals, our programs offer campers the chance to develop important life skills while also enjoying the therapeutic effects of being around animals. The lessons learned and memories made at Kennolyn last a lifetime, fostering a deep respect for both animals and nature, and helping kids grow into more compassionate, confident, and responsible individuals.
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