Clinical Corner Fall 2015
Animals and Kids with Autism – The Unique
Relationship That Can Develop Between the Two
Published by Indy’s Child
By Maggie Loiselle
Helping kids with autism improve their social interaction can be a constant challenge. Being around their peers can produce higher physiological stress levels than those in typically developing children. Researchers have long known that interacting with animals has a positive effect on those with autism, helping to lower their stress levels and develop better social skills. Recently, a Purdue University study tracked the physiological stress in two groups of children as they read silently, read aloud to peers, played with toys, and then played with guinea pigs. The study found higher stress levels in the kids with autism – except when they played with the animals. According to the study, children with autism showed an increase in social interaction when they had a positive source to interact with, such as an animal. The study stressed that not every child responds to animals in a positive way. But, for those who do, the results are encouraging. Depending on the child and the family situation, adopting a pet can be beneficial. So can taking the child to a zoo or to a friend who owns a pet. An additional study is now underway to determine whether an animal’s species affects how children with autism respond.
Together, we can unlock your child’s potential
Related News
08/13/2025
ABA Therapy Tips for Taking Your Autistic Child to the Dentist
Taking Your Autistic Child to the Dentist For any child, and even adults, a trip to the dentist can often be filled with anxiety, fear, and discomfort. For a autistic child, especially, these feelings can be even further heightened by sensitivities to noise, smell, and touch. To make this experience better for both the child […]
08/13/2025
Tips for House Hunting with Your Child on the Spectrum
Guidance for Families with Children with Autism when Moving Moving is always a stressful and complicated endeavor. But when you have a child on the autism spectrum, the thought of packing up your household and moving somewhere new can seem like a near-impossible task. Parents often worry that their children will get overwhelmed by this […]
08/12/2025
Special Needs Bikes, Trikes and Trailers: Enjoying Bike Riding with Your Child
Special Needs Bikes, Trikes and Trailers: Enjoying Bike Riding with Your Child It is that time of year when things start to heat up, and everyone begins looking for fun activities to do outdoors. A favorite pastime for many families in search of fun and connection in the fresh air is bike riding. For children […]
