The animal charity warned that nurseries can be "noisy and frightening places" for animals and called on managers and teachers to promote animal welfare without keeping pets. It said nurseries could use soft toys, books and visits to see animals in their natural habitat instead.
But Claire Bond, manager of the Clayhall Nursery in Redbridge, said the RSPCA was wrong. She says its pet rabbit Moonbeam is treated well and helps children learn about animal welfare. "We teach them having a pet is a real responsibility," she said. "Reading about animals does not compare to having a pet there."
Purnima Tanuku, chief executive of the National Day Nurseries Association, also challenged the advice. "Animals within settings can be useful in helping children learn about responsibility, caring and the natural environment," she said.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
