02/15/2024
Half of all dog bites are to children. In about a third of those cases, it is the family dog. The majority of cases are to the head and neck.
Why does this happen? Children may not be able to read a dog's subtle body language indicating stress, fear. or discomfort. (Many adults need help with this as well!) Children's faces are physically close to dogs' mouths and kids are often tempted to look closely into dogs' faces, which can trigger a defensive response. Additionally, children can often invade a dog's personal space or unintentionally threaten their resources by handling/taking their food, toys, or treats. Chasing dogs is also a problem.
Many sources discourage children in a dog park environment, so be incredibly cautious and utilize active supervision in areas they are allowed if you bring your children to a dog park.
Supervision: What It Is and Why It’s Important
Supervision describes the ways adults help protect children from injury or other harm. Supervision is an active process. It involves watching, listening, interacting, monitoring, and preventing problems.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “active and positive supervision” involves:
- Knowing each child’s abilities
- Establishing clear and simple safety rules
- Being aware of and scanning for potential safety hazards
- Standing in a strategic position
- Scanning play activities and circulating around the area
- Teaching children what is appropriate and safe
You can see that supervision is much more than watching. It involves all your skills as a teacher and caregiver. Supervision is your responsibility and commitment as someone choosing to bring your children to a public space. It is also your responsibility and commitment to the children who rely on you for guidance, nurturing, protection, and support.
https://www.virtuallabschool.org/preschool/safe-environments/lesson-4
https://www.trailblazingtails.com/blogs/queen-of-unsolicited-advice/should-children-go-to-the-dog-park
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3820741/
