BellaOnline Forums Family Special Needs Children Service Dogs in Toddler Class

I run a church nursery for children ages 18 months to three years of age. We have a five year old who is developmentally a toddler who comes in for an hour or so when he needs to get out of his wheelchair and play. He is with the children his actual age the rest of the time. He is getting a service dog. I'm familiar with guide dogs, so I have a general idea of the rules and so forth.

I'm wondering if there are materials to help me prepare the other children for the dog's arrival in a few months. I want to be sure they aren't scared of him and don't bother him or hurt him. Most books I've found are for much older children. I did see I could buy toy service dogs, which I plan to do to use in training. I'd appreciate any suggestions for the training. The child himself can't talk, so he can't introduce it himself.

Terrie Bittner

This is such a good question ~ I will survey parents whose children have service dogs and see whether they have advice for you. Until then, I found this site helpful:

Teaching Kids Disability Etiquette

Thanks again for asking!

Pam W
SE of Seattle

Service Animals and Childhood Disability