HRA has many programs to help kids learn about our furry companions

by Debbie Duel
Director of Humane Education, HRA

Numerous studies highlight the emotional health benefits children gain when connecting with companion animals. Those relationships help children build self-esteem and combat loneliness. The Humane Rescue Alliance’s (HRA) long-established classroom education program emphasized that connection while encouraging kindness, compassion, and social action. Although HRA’s in-person youth programs are currently unavailable, young animal enthusiasts can learn about HRA’s community programs, meet animal experts, and see companion animals on their computer screens through several virtual opportunities.

HRA’s Caring Kids Winter Specialty Camp is December 28th and 29th from 10 am to noon. The “Who’s Your Neighbor? Wildlife in the DMV” session on December 28th will give middle schoolers an opportunity to learn from experts from HRA, Echoes of Nature and the Save Lucy the Bat organization.

Then, on December 29th, dogs, cats, and small animals will make an appearance during “Home Buddies – Companion Animals in the House!” The cost of the two-day event, open to 5th to8th grade students, is $25, and need-based scholarships are available. For information on the scholarships contact education@humanerescuealliance.org.

On January 8th, HRA’s popular Fun Fur Fridays resumes! Students in grades K-12 can meet companion animals up-close when they Zoom into HRA’s Fun Fur Fridays at 4pm. Each week a different animal or group of animals will make an appearance.

Classroom and after-school program teachers, scout troops, and other youth leaders can also schedule virtual programming. Our 45-minute programs provide students with an opportunity to ask questions, share information, and brainstorm ways to help animals in their communities.

One of HRA’s virtual campers enjoying classes… with his furry classmates.

“Friday was AMAZING. Seriously — the highlight of my week and the kids were sending glowing emails all weekend,” wrote a middle school teacher whose students participated in HRA’s virtual humane education program. “My principal who was in my classroom was so excited by the program and laughing all evening about the kids’ empathic comments in the chat.”

In addition, students, families, and educators can learn more about animals and the people who care for them any time when they explore HRA’s virtual Animal Academy. The Animal Academy lists service projects to increase involvement, suggests great books that promote advocacy, and profiles students helping animals in the community. Those stories are routinely updated in the Humane Heroes section of the Animal Academy. Plus, there are lots of cute animal videos to view.

For information on all of HRA’s education programs, visit humanerescuealliance.org/humane-education or contact Debbie Duel, Director of Humane Education.