School animals are becoming a unique addition to education in Belgium, with Turnhout leading the way. On 2025-05-12 13:53:00, a special focus was placed on how animals like school dogs support children’s well-being in schools.
- Schooldieren zijn onbekend in Spanje
- Turnhout heeft kippen, cavia, schoolzorghond
- Labradoodle Milou helpt kinderen met emoties
- Milou bezoekt school drie dagen per week
- Kinderen leren omgaan met Milou
- Spaanse leerkrachten tonen interesse in Milou's rol
In Turnhout, alongside chickens and a guinea pig, school care dog Milou plays a vital role. Milou, a labradoodle belonging to teacher Anja, visits school about three days a week, helping children cope with sadness and anxiety.
But how do these animals really impact the school environment? And could this approach inspire other Belgian schools? The interest from Spanish educators shows the growing curiosity about animal-assisted support in education.
Why are school animals like Milou gaining attention? They offer emotional benefits that traditional methods might miss. Here’s what makes this approach notable:
- Milou is trained to assist children with fears and sadness, providing comfort.
- Children learn to interact respectfully with the dog, fostering empathy.
- Walking with Milou during breaks encourages physical activity and social interaction.
- International interest, such as from Spain, highlights the model’s potential impact.
Could more Belgian schools welcome animals like Milou to support students? This innovative practice invites educators and parents to rethink how emotional care is integrated into daily school life, promising a brighter future for children’s mental health.