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“Connecting Animals and Children in Early Childhood is an engaging text that
presents strong connections between background knowledge and practical,
hands-on approaches to including animals in children’s lives. Selly does an
excellent job integrating research with practical ideas for supporting child
development and the child-animal bond. Key aspects to child development
such as social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development are discussed
from a unique perspective that includes cultural, financial, and social jus-
tice considerations. In addition to providing practical tips for including
animals in children’s lives, Selly also presents information on how media
influences human perception of animals and their behaviors. The passion
that Selly has for animals and children is very clear when reading this text
and should encourage all educators to consider how to include animals
in their classrooms. This text is written with the concern for both children
and animals and how animals can positively support child development.
This may sound cliché, but I really mean it—this should be a must-read for
any educator considering bringing an animal into the classroom as a pet.
The section on planning and having meaningful interactions is especially
crucial for early childhood educators to understand.”
—Clarissa M. Uttley, PhD, Professor of Early Childhood Studies at
Plymouth State University
“Even in the 21st century, the human brain remains powerfully attracted to
animals. Patty Born Selly does a beautiful job showing us why that ancient,
innate bond remains essential to the development of our children and
our species. Selly’s vision gives me joy and hope for the future. I hope all
teachers and parents will take this book to heart.”
—Meg Daley Olmert, author of Made For Each Other: The Biology of the Human-
Animal Bond and Director of Research at Warrior Canine Connection, Inc.
“Patty Born Selly shows us how we can capitalize on children’s innate con-
nection with animals to create everyday opportunities to spur children’s
curiosity, engage children in learning that’s meaningful, and connect chil-
dren with other living creatures. This book is a powerful tool for any teacher
who wants to bring more life into his or her teaching.”
—Christy Merrick, Natural Start Coordinator, North American Association
for Environmental Education
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