We have also started introducing the pets in small groups, especially with younger students. It has tied in beautifully with our “getting along” unit, where we talk about fairness, meaning everyone gets what they need.
A student worked alongside his paraprofessional in a quieter space with the pet and remained engaged in the lesson, completed his work, and followed along with the group instruction. It was really powerful to see him remain connected to the learning while also getting what he needed to feel calm and supported.
In a kindergarten classroom, a student who was feeling very overwhelmed was able to recognize and verbalize that he needed to calm down, which is something that is not typical for him. After spending time with the pet, he was able to regulate and rejoin the class, even participating in the group activity.