What Do You Mean They’re Here For A Week: Planning, Coordinating, and Hosting Summer Camp for Elementary and Middle School Kids

By: Dayna Verhey from Humane Society of Charlotte

Planning summer camp is an endeavor, and it’s one that can quickly shift from exciting to overwhelming. I’ve found a variety of strategies and tactics that have made my life easier, and I am hoping I can answer some of the questions that you may have regarding preparation, logistics, and the day-to-day mechanics of running camp.

At Humane Society of Charlotte, we begin our camp registrations in January and use Sawyer to manage them. This means we are actively advertising on social media as early as December, and we have our general camp information posted usually by the end of November. Of the nine weeks we offered this year, the twenty slots for each of the three 3rd -5th grade camps filled up within hours. The remaining slots are still filling up, and several other weeks are already full. Our camp runs from 9-4 Monday-Friday, and we priced it at $380 for the week with the option to add aftercare until 5 pm for an additional $70. Our pricing is based on our area and similar nature and animal-oriented summer camps within the region. There are several things you need to know before you can post about your camp, though, and one of those is your theme.

The theme is the core of your camp. What do you want the kids to take away from the experience? If you’re looking to focus on social-emotional learning, use that as the foundation for your theme. A theme also tells parents what they’re signing their kids up for, generating interest and offering a glimpse into the kind of experiences kids will have throughout the day or days even before you share a snippet of the schedule. We went with the following themes this year: Pawsitive Pals for our 1st and 2nd graders, Shelter Explorers for our 3rd -5th graders, and Animal Perspectives for our 6th -8th graders. Pawsitive Pals is all about that social-emotional learning element, focusing on the kids’ relationship with animals, other campers, and themselves.  Shelter Explorers focuses more on the inquisitive nature of that age group, allowing them to explore their interests and encouraging their curiosities. Finally, Animal Perspectives is all about understanding animals and looking at the world from their point of view as a way to foster empathy. These overarching themes break down into pieces, allowing us to explore different topics each day. For example, with Shelter Explorers we devote a day to each of the following: the shelter, animal behavior, veterinary medicine, animal-oriented careers, and animal welfare.

Our intensive planning starts in January, when I draft our daily schedule based around camp themes. This is an outline where some of the activities are fully fleshed out and others are still in their theoretical phase. Then we go through a thorough revision phase to begin preparing what works and scrapping what doesn’t. You know your space best—make sure you’re accounting for it! It’s easy to get over-ambitious; I like to check in by mapping the space to determine whether an activity is feasible within the given parameters. Consider table placements, space for kids to move around, and how much time it will take to arrange and rearrange tables and chairs or other supplies and equipment. As I work through this planning process, I also consider what activities and events can be scaled up or down for different age groups, as well as what activities are limited to specific age groups based on their nature. Don’t reinvent the wheel. Borrow from the APHE Resource Library, reach out to other organizations, and if you can use an activity for multiple age groups, do it!

 When it comes to selecting activities, think about what makes your shelter unique. For example, we have a really wonderful clinic and veterinary staff. When I plan behind-the-scenes tours, I take them into the clinic after surgery is done for the day because I know our clinic is a strength. I also coordinate with our vets to have the kids watch them perform a spay surgery on a teddy bear, giving the kids a glimpse into the kind of work that our vets do every day. The goal is to give them experiences they can’t get anywhere else, and we use every part of the organization that we can to enable this.

To help run our camp, we have two full time staff members (myself, the Youth Programs Coordinator; and the Education Manager). We hire two part-time seasonal employees, one for the morning and one for the afternoon. They have an orientation where we go over the schedule in its entirety and break down activities. They are expected to be able to lead the groups through the daily activities. We post four volunteer slots per day as well, two for the morning and two for the afternoon. Our volunteers are expected to monitor the campers and assist them and us as needed. We also bring in two CITs, or Counselors-In-Training, per week of camp for our elementary kids. Our CITs are 9th and 10th grade students, as kids 16 and up can volunteer with us. We do not utilize CITs for 6th -8th grade camp weeks, as we feel the age gap is not wide enough. Our CITs go through a one-day orientation before camp begins, and the registration fee for them is $200 per week. Our CITs are given directions for the day while campers are going through their daily orientation and icebreakers, after which they are expected to run simple activities (such as games) and assist with a variety of daily tasks.

One of the trickiest parts of camp, for us, is making it feel like summer camp. As humane educators, it’s in our nature to try and lean into the educational aspects. The way that we found our balance was by weaving necessary conversations into games and content but also offering “choice time,” where campers can decide what kind of activity they want to do for two sessions each day. We give them three options: outside time (weather dependent), crafting, or playing a game (such as dog breed bingo). Another way that we try and provide the “camp” feeling is by creating traditions that campers get to enjoy, such as giving returning campers painted paw prints specific to the child based on the number of years they have attended or creating flags with their names on them that they get to add to each year. Our content is firmly rooted in education but making it fun and interactive is just as essential.

So, when it comes to camp, start planning early! Start with a theme or foundation, then flesh it out from there. It’s okay to start with rough ideas of activities and scrap or refine them as you go, and don’t be afraid to ask other organizations for help or borrow APHE resources. Seasonal employees are great if you can get them, and effectively utilizing volunteers can take a lot of pressure off each camp day. Finally, keep in mind that while our mission is humane education, campers are here for a week of fun summer camp delight. Weave humane education into games, crafts, and any and every aspect you can, but camp isn’t class. Help them learn through doing, through feeling, and through seeing all the awesome things that your organization can do. Summer camp is an amazing way to help make those lessons stick, as they learn that humane education looks like empathy, compassion, and a whole lot of fun!

 Green Minds: Practical Ways to Cultivate Environmental Care in Young Children

By: Temilola Oyenuga

“Childhood is never buried; it lives on in your mind, your heart, your soul.”

— Iris Rose, Fragile Feelings

A few months ago, I hopped on a video call with some childhood friends, wanting to catch up and commiserate about the realities of adulthood. But almost immediately, our conversation turned to childhood memories. We laughed loudly at silly moments and paused thoughtfully over memories that still felt meaningful. As the call came to an end, one of us remarked nostalgically that childhood leaves an indelible mark, and we all agreed.

As adults, we recognize the truth in Iris Rose’s words because long after playgrounds fade, the impressions of childhood remain, shaping who we are and how we see the world. Developmental theorist Urie Bronfenbrenner explains that these impressions endure because they are formed through repeated, meaningful interactions, known as proximal processes, within interconnected systems. Over time, these interactions shape our values, behaviors, and sense of responsibility, including how we relate to and care for the natural world.

This understanding of childhood’s lasting influence underscores why conversations about environmental care should begin in the early years. Accordingly, I position environmental care in this article as a foundational value to be emphasized from the earliest years. My aim is not only to help you, as a children’s educator, appreciate why fostering environmental care matters in the early years but also to provide evidence-based approaches, classroom activities, and resources that can support you in guiding your students toward becoming environmentally mindful adults.

Why is Childhood a Pivotal Stage for Instilling Environmental Care?

To understand why childhood is a pivotal stage for instilling environmental care, it is important first to recognize the reciprocal relationship between children and their environment. As I mentioned earlier, Urie Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory explains that an individual’s development is shaped through ongoing interactions within interconnected systems. One of these systems is the physical environment, which includes natural elements (e.g., land, water), built spaces (e.g., homes, playgrounds), materials and objects (e.g., stones, wood), sensory features (e.g., light, sound), and biodiversity (e.g., plants, animals). Children do not merely exist within these environments; they respond to them, modify them through play and exploration, and assign meaning to them. In turn, the environment, through its materials, spaces, sensory qualities, and living elements, influences how children move, feel, think, and act.

This reciprocity is why early childhood theorists such as Pestalozzi, Froebel, and Montessori emphasized the inseparability of young children and the environment. Through mutual influence, children develop a strong sense of connection, a quality that, according to research cited by Barrable (2019), is a stronger predictor of positive ecological behavior in adulthood than environmental knowledge alone. Ardoin and Bowers (2020) provided more context, explaining that ecological awareness, environmental attitudes, environmental consciousness, and nature-relatedness begin to develop in early childhood, increasing participation in pro-environmental behaviors later in life. Hence, childhood is pivotal for instilling environmental care because this period is when children form their initial connection to the natural world. When that connection is strong, it fosters stewardship and predetermines environmentally responsible behavior in the future.

What Evidence-Based Teaching Strategies Foster Environmental Care in Young Children?

Since the Environmental Education Act was passed in the United States in 1970, countries and international organizations have worked to bring environmental education into classrooms worldwide, including early childhood classrooms (Ye & Shih, 2020). Consequently, researchers have explored evidence-based approaches that teachers can use to foster environmental learning in young children. Some approaches found to have instilled pro-environmental values in children include nature exploration, imaginative play, and storytelling (Ardoin & Bowers, 2020; Hadzigeorgiou et al., 2011; Hsiao & Shih, 2015; Wojciehowski & Ernst, 2018; Ye & Shih, 2020). Let’s briefly explore these approaches and illustrate how they can be applied in the classroom through cognitive frameworks, such as Thinking Routines and Habits of Mind, to create meaningful learning experiences for your students.

Nature Exploration

This approach involves direct interaction with and observation of the natural environment, such as plants, animals, and other natural elements. Exploring nature enables children to ask questions, reflect on human-environment interactions, engage all senses, and develop the knowledge and skills necessary for creative participation in environmental preservation (McClain & Vandermaas-Peeler, 2016). Table 1 illustrates how this approach can be adapted in the classroom.

Table 1- Sample Activity (Ages 4-7)

Imaginative Play

Sometimes, visiting natural sites may not be easily accessible due to location, safety, or time constraints. In such cases, imaginative play offers a meaningful way for children to explore environmental concepts and develop care for the natural world. This approach uses role play, pretend scenarios, and creative problem-solving to help children engage with environmental ideas in a safe and accessible way. Imaginative play fosters respect for nature, builds environmental vocabulary through proper naming, and supports children in representing and communicating what they learn (Wight et al., 2015). Table 2 illustrates how this approach can be adapted in the classroom.

Table 2- Sample Activity (Ages 3–6)

Storytelling

The final approach, storytelling, uses children’s books to introduce environmental ideas and explore how humans interact with their surroundings. Stories help children notice different ways of thinking about the environment, for example, seeing nature as something that benefits people or recognizing that plants, animals, and ecosystems have value on their own. Through storytelling, children can express care, empathy, and respect for living things, helping them develop a deeper connection with the natural world (Yılmaz et al., 2018). Table 3 illustrates how this approach can be adapted in the classroom.

Table 3- Sample Activity (Ages 5–8)

In summary, cultivating environmental care in young children begins with nurturance through immersive experiences, meaningful relationships, and opportunities for personal reflection. When children are supported in this way, they develop a genuine sense of responsibility for the world around them, one that is likely to endure throughout their lives. To further support teachers, I created The Green Classroom: A Toolkit for Nurturing Environmental Care. This resource guides educators in designing classroom environments that organically foster environmental responsibility through a nested system of Education for Sustainable Development principles, classroom relationships, and cultural influences. It also includes recommendations for children’s books and additional resources to deepen practice. For educators seeking to create classrooms that promote student agency within broader, interconnected systems, this toolkit offers a starting point.

References

Ardoin, N. M., & Bowers, A. W. (2020). Early childhood environmental education: A systematic review of the research literature. Educational Research Review, 31(100353), 100353. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7348615/

Barrable, A. (2019). Refocusing Environmental Education in the Early Years: A Brief Introduction to a Pedagogy for Connection. Education Sciences, 9(1), 61. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci9010061

Hadzigeorgiou, Y., Prevezanou, B., Kabouropoulou, M., & Konsolas, M. (2011). Teaching about the importance of trees: a study with young children. Environmental Education Research, 17(4), 519–536. https://doi.org/10.1080/13504622.2010.549938

Hsiao, C.-Y., & Shih, P.-Y. (2015). Exploring the effectiveness of picture books for teaching young children the concepts of environmental protection. International Research in Geographical and Environmental Education, 25(1), 36–49. https://doi.org/10.1080/10382046.2015.1106203

McClain, C., & Vandermaas-Peeler, M. (2016). Outdoor Explorations with Preschoolers: An Observational Study of Young Children’s Developing Relationship with the Natural World. International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education, 4(1), 37–53. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1120151

Wight, R. A., Kloos, H., Maltbie, C. V., & Carr, V. W. (2015). Can playscapes promote early childhood inquiry towards environmentally responsible behaviors? An exploratory study. Environmental Education Research, 22(4), 518–537. https://doi.org/10.1080/13504622.2015.1015495

Wojciehowski, M., & Ernst, J. (2018). Creative by Nature: Investigating the Impact of Nature Preschools on Young Children’s Creative Thinking. International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education, 6(1), 3–20. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1193490

Ye, Y.-H., & Shih, Y.-H. (2020). Environmental Education for Children in Taiwan: Importance, Purpose and Teaching Methods. Universal Journal of Educational Research, 8(4), 1572–1578. https://doi.org/10.13189/ujer.2020.080451

Yılmaz, S., Temiz, Z., & Karaarslan Semiz, G. (2018). Children’s understanding of human–nature interaction after a folk storytelling session. Applied Environmental Education & Communication, 19(1), 88–100. https://doi.org/10.1080/1533015x.2018.1517062

Using Zones of Regulation to Support Perspective-Taking and Empathy for Animals

By: Alyssa Catholdi, Humane Education Supervisor, Lollypop Farm

At the start of this academic year, a funder challenged me to design a curriculum—aligned with New York State Science Standards—that centers on animal behavior, humane education, and the work my shelter, Lollypop Farm, does for the animals in the Rochester community. As humane educators, a significant part of our job is helping our communities understand that animals have feelings, just like we do. Similarly, just as our emotions influence how we act, the same is true for our pets.

However, that "lightbulb" moment can be a bit tricky, especially for younger or neurodiverse learners. Children with diverse learning needs often require additional support to decode nonverbal cues and/or think in abstract terms, which can make "prosocial" behaviors—such as empathy—a significant cognitive challenge. Drawing on my background in childhood special education, I had a lightbulb moment of my own: Why not bridge the gap by relating animal body language to the Zones of Regulation?

If you’ve stepped into a classroom lately, you’ve likely seen the Zones of Regulation framework. It’s a color-coded system—Blue, Green, Yellow, and Red—that helps kids identify and categorize their feelings. For kids who thrive in a concrete world, this framework is a total game-changer. Once a kid knows which Zone they are in, they are empowered to grab a "tool" from their toolbox to return to the Green Zone. Furthermore, with sufficient practice, the Zones of Regulation empowers children to recognize patterns and proactively advocate for what they need to stay regulated.

As humane educators, we want to take that one step further by linking self-regulation to animal behavior, reinforcing the vocabulary children need to navigate their own emotions while highlighting the perspective-taking and empathy needed to protect and respect the animals they love. The following lesson plan is just the start of helping the younger, neurodiverse students in our communities learn these important skills. By incorporating movement and gameplay into the curriculum, students become more engaged in the learning process. 

By bridging the gap between human self-regulation and animal behavior, we provide students with a concrete roadmap for empathy. Using the Zones of Regulation allows young learners to see that a dog’s "Yellow Zone" fidgeting or a cat’s "Red Zone" arched back are not just random behaviors, but clear communication of their needs. This framework does more than teach animal safety; it empowers children to use their social-emotional skills and recognize that every living being—whether two-legged or four—experiences feelings; ultimately creating a more empathetic world. 

To view a lesson plan that uses the Zones of Regulation, created by Lollypop Farm, click here. 

Leave it BEE! Helping Native Bees Also Helps Other Native Wildlife! 

By Karen Verderame, Assistant Director of Outreach Education, Penn Vet Shelter Medicine and Community Engagement

There are over 4,000 species of native bees in North America. Our native bees are essential pollinators in many cases of agriculture, even more important than the imported European honeybee. Many species of our native bees are drastically declining due to the use of pesticides, lack of native plants and lack of overwinter and nesting sites. We see many animals preparing for winter during the fall, like squirrels collecting nuts, birds migrating to warmer weather. Many people prepare for winter by spending their days cleaning up their gardens and raking leaves from their lawns. However, it can be easy to overlook the smaller creatures that inhabit our leaf litter and gardens. Leaving the leaves for the bees can help ensure they can survive winter and have nesting sites in spring. Not only will you help save native bees, but also help other species of wildlife! 

The leaves provide crucial insulation throughout winter for many pollinators including native bee species, butterflies, and moths, but also for amphibians and reptiles. The leaves also provide nesting material and food for many of these animals. Additionally, planting native flowers will not only provide a valuable nectar source during the spring, but the stems and plant material will also be used by many native bee species like bumble bees, sweat bees and mason bees, as nesting and overwintering sites, as well as a food source. 

You can help the bees and other wildlife by moving your leaves into garden beds, or create areas on your lawn or in your yard where you make low piles of leaves, compile sticks and branches. Even keeping out flower boxes with the plant remnants can help provide habitat to overwinter for native species. By helping our native bees, we help other wildlife, increase biodiversity, and promote a healthy ecosystem for all. 

Common Native Species of Bees

Graphic Credit: Brooke Ezzo

Resources for more information on how to help native bee species: 

https://www.fws.gov/story/top-plants-your-pollinator-garden#northeast

https://xerces.org/publications/plant-lists

https://xerces.org/publications/fact-sheets/nesting-overwintering-habitat

As Fall Approaches: Reflection, Renewal, and a Sweet Treat for the Season

By Caroline Kelley, M.Ed., Peaceful Child Education

As fall approaches, nature begins her quiet transformation- inviting us to slow down, reflect, and reconnect. For humane educators, this seasonal shift is more than a change in temperature or the vibrant turning of leaves. It’s a timely reminder of the cyclical nature of compassion, growth, and our shared responsibility to cultivate a more just, kind, and sustainable world.

A Season of Reflection and Reconnection

In classrooms, shelters, sanctuaries, and communities, the back-to-school season is in full swing. For many of us, this is a time to re-engage learners in critical conversations about kindness—to people, animals, and the planet. Fall provides the perfect backdrop for storytelling, for thoughtful discussion, and for modeling the interconnectedness that humane education champions.

This season, let’s ask ourselves:

• How are we modeling empathy in our daily lives and lessons?
• What new ways can we help learners make meaningful connections between their choices and the world around them?
• Are we making space for joy, rest, and community in our work as humane educators?

In a world that often feels rushed and reactive, autumn’s pace encourages us to be intentional. Whether it’s choosing kinder curricula, hosting a compassion-centered book club, or just taking a mindful walk outdoors—every small act matters.

Classroom Connections: Kindness in Action

Fall also offers countless humane education tie-ins—from harvest festivals that emphasize plant-based food systems, to exploring ethical fashion as colder weather invites wardrobe changes. Now is a wonderful time to explore seasonal topics like:

• Animal welfare in farming and how plant-based choices support more compassionate food systems.
• The impact of migration and habitat loss as birds and other animals adapt to seasonal changes.
• Environmental stewardship through discussions about leaf litter, composting, and preparing gardens for winter.

Through these explorations, we foster not only knowledge, but the compassion and critical thinking that help shape a more humane future.

Activity: “Cookies for a Kinder World”

Age range: 4–8

Duration: 30–45 minutes

Setting: Classroom or home kitchen

Objective

To help children understand how the foods we eat can show kindness to animals, people, and the planet — while engaging in a joyful, hands-on experience.

Activity Steps

1. Begin with a Story or Discussion

Sit together and ask:

•  “Where do the ingredients in our cookies come from?”
•  “Who might help grow or harvest them?”
• “How can we make food choices that are kind to animals and the Earth?”

Talk about how plant-based recipes mean fewer farm animals kept in factories and less harm to the environment. Introduce the idea that kindness can start in the kitchen.

2. Bake Together

Follow the vegan cookie recipe (see below) — point out ingredients like vegan chocolate, or plant-based milk as “kind choices.”

While mixing, talk about:

• “How do plants help us stay healthy?”
• “What animals might share this environment with us?”
• “How can we protect their homes?”

(Optional: If baking isn’t possible, children can “mix” pretend ingredients in bowls with spoons for a sensory play version.)

3. Reflection: “Kindness You Can Taste”

As the cookies bake (or after tasting), have children draw or dictate their answer to: “How does this cookie show kindness?” or “Who or what does our cookie help?” Collect their drawings to make a “Kind Kitchen” poster.

4. Extension (optional)

Afterward, compost leftover scraps or crumbs together. Talk about how compost helps the Earth “recycle” food into soil — another way of caring for the planet.

Key Takeaway

“When we make kind cookies, we help animals, people, and the planet — one sweet bite at a time.”

A Cozy Treat: Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Of course, no fall reflection would be complete without something warm and sweet to share. Whether you’re baking for a classroom celebration, an outreach event, or a quiet moment of self-care, these vegan chocolate chip cookies are a favorite—easy to make, cruelty-free, and delicious!

Soft & Chewy Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup coconut oil (solid, not melted) or vegan butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (like almond, soy, or oat)
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup vegan chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the coconut oil and brown sugar until smooth.

3. Add the non-dairy milk and vanilla, mixing until well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring until just combined.

6. Fold in the chocolate chips.

7. Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look soft—that’s perfect!

9. Let cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tip: These freeze well! Make a double batch and save some for future cozy moments.

Sharing Warmth, Sharing Values

As we ease into fall, may we all find small ways to nourish not only our bodies, but also our hearts and communities. Whether through compassionate teaching, mindful eating, or simple acts of kindness—this season offers space to deepen our practice as humane educators.

Wishing you a meaningful, mission-driven autumn. Stay warm, stay kind, and don’t forget to share the cookies.

Helping Odd Dogs Feel at Home: Why the 3/3/3 Rule Matters

By: Leia Barrett, Ph.D, Author, Stories by Leia

Although I grew up with dogs, I did not adopt my first dog until I was 40. I wanted a dog for many years, but demanding jobs and a lack of time at home made me question whether I could give a dog the life they deserved.

When my husband and I finally took the plunge, we were introduced to the ‘3/3/3 rule’. The 3/3/3 rule explains that it can take 3 days for a dog to decompress, 3 weeks to start feeling comfortable, and 3 months to fully settle in and build trust. It helped us navigate through the difficult times, reassuring us that our new dog Layla’s odd behaviors were normal.

At the same time, I was doing research for my children’s book, The Odd Dog, interacting with as many rescue and shelter groups as I could. What struck me was how often the 3/3/3 rule was mentioned. In a world of half-truths and minute disagreements, every expert I found agreed that the 3/3/3 rule was not only valid, but as close to universal as anything I’d seen.

Looking at the 3/3/3 rule from an author’s perspective, I also saw the subject matter could (and should!) be utilized for children and their families.

In an era when kids have technology and information at their fingertips, 3/3/3 has the power to unlock crucial SEL and life skills. Here are a few crucial lessons I believe 3/3/3 can teach families:

Fosters patience and empathy

Teaching kids the 3/3/3 rule helps them understand the adjustment period a dog needs. Without this understanding, they might expect immediate bonding or interaction with a new dog. This can lead to frustration on the part of a child or, worse, create a situation where a dog lashes out.

Encourages Respect for the Dog’s Space

Helping children understand a dog’s need for quiet and space, especially in the first three days, is helpful for a number of reasons. First, it avoids mishaps if a child unintentionally invades a dog’s safe space or tries to interact before it’s ready. By teaching kids to respect their dog’s need for space, they are also learning the importance of personal boundaries and respect.

Building Positive Interactions

Understanding that a dog’s comfort levels and socialization will develop gradually helps children engage with the dog in a positive and non-threatening way. The 3/3/3 rule can encourage kids to be gentle and patient, reinforcing positive behavior through treats and praise. This helps the dog become more comfortable and establishes a foundation in which their relationship can thrive.

Some Final Thoughts

Teaching children about the 3/3/3 rule not only helps them understand and support their new pet but also fosters a sense of empathy, responsibility, and respect. By incorporating these lessons into their daily interactions with the dog, children can contribute to a smoother transition and a stronger, more positive relationship with their new furry family member.

Look for The Odd Dog’s Guide to Making Friends, a follow-up book to The Odd Dog. In this story, the 3/3/3 rule is woven through the story as Odd welcomes a new dog into his home.

Program Spotlight: Tot Tuesday

By: Lauran Skelton, Youth Education Director, Kansas Humane Society

One of the most important early lessons in life is how to navigate emotions, understand boundaries, and show kindness. While guardians, teachers, and peers play a major role in this journey, pets can be powerful teachers as well. At the Kansas Humane Society, we’ve created a special program to help toddlers develop these social-emotional skills with the help of some furry friends.

About Tot Tuesday

Launched in January 2025, Tot Tuesday is a monthly 45-minute program designed for toddlers and their caregivers. Whether it’s during craft time or meeting one of our animal guests; the session focuses on building confidence around animals, practicing safe approaches, and sparking creativity through themed crafts and storytime. With a maximum of 10 children per session, each toddler gets personalized attention from a volunteer or staff member. This small group setting ensures a calm and engaging environment where toddlers can explore at their own pace. 

What to Expect

As families arrive, toddlers choose a cozy spot on our paw print carpet squares. While everyone settles in, a volunteer leads a brief hands-in-lap activity to practice stillness and listening (perfect skills for meeting animals!) Kids are invited to share what pets they have at home, setting the tone for connection and curiosity.

Themed Stories & Crafts

Each month we read two books; one book is geared towards the 2-3 year old ages and the second book is geared towards 3-5. Our craft time is based around one of these books. One book we’ve previously read is Boopby Bea Birdsong. Boop is filled with fun ways for kids to interact, from counting and lively exclamations to pure silliness, and kids absolutely loved it. All kinds of dogs are featured in this book and some kids even found a dog they recognized in the story. The author has a note at the beginning of the book reminding children that if a dog isn’t yours or one you are familiar with, be sure to check with an adult before you “Boop a snoot”. I provided a small stuffed dog for each child to interact with and “boop” their nose during the book. For our craft I created a template on Canva, that has a variety of dogs with different colored noses. Children then matched pom poms to the correct color on the dogs nose. Our volunteers went around the room asking each child how many dogs are on the page. This activity helps teach coloring and counting.

In May, we read The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. Our craft consisted of a custom caterpillar template I created in Canva, and paired with colorful green and red pom-poms. The toddlers practiced color matching and counting by placing the pom-poms on the correct circle of the caterpillar. It was super fun and educational!

In June, we explored Dog’s Colorful Day by Emma Dodd, a playful story filled with colors and counting. Using a dog template that I printed on watercolor paper, children painted their own versions of the story's cheerful pup. To make the experience even more special, I printed photos of real KHS resident dogs and the children created colorful artwork using water color. These beautiful pieces were used to decorate our dog suites, adding a splash of color and love to our shelter, and hopefully drawing the public over to our longer staying dogs. 

In July we read Pete the Cat Screams for Ice Cream by Kimberly and James Dean. A fun book that follows Pete the Cat as he learns that it's always cool to be kind. For this craft I used cardboard that was left over from in-kind donations. I then cut out the shape of an ice cream cone, and glued cotton balls on the top. I  then filled small cups with colorful food-dye. Each child was given colorful pipettes that matched the color of their water. They then created their very own ice cream! 

Animal Time

After each craft activity, we give the children the opportunity to meet some of our resident animals which includes dogs, cats and sometimes guinea pigs.  We bring one child over at a time, carefully guiding them through how to safely approach and gently pet an animal they do not know. While many of the children have pets at home, for some this may be their very first time interacting with an animal.

To keep the experience engaging and educational, we ask the children simple questions while they interact with the animal like “What does it feel like?”, “Is the fur soft?”, “What color are the animal’s eyes?”, “How many paws do they have?” This helps make the moment both fun and interactive while reinforcing observation and communication skills.

Why It Matters

Tot Tuesday is a special time where learning goes far beyond story time and crafts. It’s a chance for toddlers to grow emotionally and socially as they begin to understand empathy, patience, and how to treat animals with kindness and care. With the support of their guardian and the calming presence of our friendly animals, children are building foundational skills in compassion and safe animal interactions.

We are excited to see what the next Tot Tuesday brings as each month brings new experiences and new faces. It is our hope that Tot Tuesday helps guide and foster valuable lessons for the next generation of thoughtful and compassionate pet parents.

Dear APHE Members,

I could not be more excited to begin my term as APHE’s new president!  This organization means so much to me both personally and professionally, and I look forward to being a small piece in its growth and development over the next two years.

As many of you know, APHE recognizes its calendar year from one annual conference to another, and this past year (May 2024- May 2025) was a very big one for us!  I’d love to highlight some of our accomplishments over the past 12 months, and also share some exciting news, ideas, and projects for the coming year.

In May 2024, we officially launched our new EmpowerED blog, and have had the privilege of publishing 17 blog posts since then; sharing a diverse array of topics and perspectives from professionals in humane education, animal welfare, volunteer management, wildlife preservation, publishing, and more!  If you have a topic you’d like to see in our blog or would like to write an article for us, please let us know!

Throughout the summer of 2024, we shared our amazing 2023 Educator’s Choice winners (this makes great social media content for when a lot of our membership is busy with summer camps), and have just started sharing 2024’s winners. There are some incredibly inspirational folks working in humane education, and we are so happy to be able to provide them with some well-deserved recognition!  Each year, the participation in this competition has grown significantly, and because of that, we are excited to plan a more elaborate celebration for our winners next year.  Stay tuned for more details!

Our Board of Directors wrapped up 2024 with a visit to Albuquerque, New Mexico for our mid-year full board meeting.  On top of the basic tasks like reviewing committee reports and planning for the upcoming conference, highlights of the trip included visiting Sandia Peak Mountain at 10,378 ft. and helping find a home for a friendly outdoor kitty (who we all fell in love with and named Alan)!

Recently, many of you joined us at our annual conference in Kansas City at the end of April.  As has been my experience with every APHE conference I’ve attended, I left feeling so full of amazement, appreciation, and inspiration thanks to the brilliant presentations and the conversations I had through all of the networking opportunities.  APHE conferences always help to remind me of the goodness that exists in this world, which is truly something we need more of now more than ever.

This year’s conference theme was “Kindness & Community in Kansas City,” and our attendees and speakers showed out in full force - completely embodying what it means to build community and to show kindness to one another.  While we haven’t officially finalized a theme (or dates) for 2026’s conference yet, we have a location picked and are excited to expand upon the momentum that was built in Kansas City.  We hope many of you will have the opportunity to visit us in Oakland, California for 2026’s annual conference!  More details will be coming very soon!

At the conference, we said farewell to three amazing board members who contributed so much during their tenure on the board, including past APHE president Inge Koopman-Leyva, previous Membership Secretary Emily Strongin, and 2024 conference chair Christine Davis.  

While goodbyes are always hard, it does mean that we got the opportunity to welcome some new individuals to our team!  We are so excited to have Ashley Holm, Caroline Kelley, Jesika Keener, and Karen Verderame all join us as new board members!

Finally, we ended the annual conference with two big announcements.  First- APHE has a new merchandise store on Bonfire!  Our Marketing & Communications committee put so much work into this project, and I personally could not be more excited to have more APHE swag in my wardrobe!  There are so many fun designs, and we plan to update with new designs at least once or twice a year, so keep an eye on the shop!  If you have any genius design ideas- let us know!

Secondly, we announced our initiative to provide support for regional workshops throughout the next year; encouraging our members to create more networking opportunities so that we can all continue to build and grow our programs and ideas together!  One is already in the works for the Southeast area in September, and there are rumors of a California regional workshop in October.  The website and our social media channels will be updated once we have more details!

As you can see, it was quite a busy year, and we have a lot we are looking forward to accomplishing over the next year too!  We could not accomplish so much without the dedicated work of our board of directors, as well as the support of our advisors, donors, sponsors, and members.  Want to join in on the fun and get more involved with all the fun things we’re doing?  Visit our website for information on joining the board of directors or our advisory council!

Wishing you a wonderful summer season — whether it includes summer camps/summer programming or fun vacations — and hoping to connect with some of you soon through social media, Groupsite, Coffee & Connect, or at the Southeast Regional workshop!

Sincerely,

Kylie Wiest

Embracing Every Child: Diverse and Inclusive Humane Education Books

By Bianca Byrne, Humane Educator, Jacksonville Humane Society

At the Jacksonville Humane Society, we do our best to accommodate, include, and inspire any child that may want to join us for our Humane Education programs. This includes our fun and educational lessons about animals at our camps, and trickles all the way down to the books we provide to students for our Pawsitive Reading program (where kids have the opportunity to read out loud to the pets in order to help the animals destress). We even take visits through our Outreach Program to see kids in the community who otherwise wouldn’t be able to get to JHS but still want to learn. 

It is very important for kids to see themselves in the media they are consuming, whether that’s on screen or on paper. If they have a character in a book they can relate to, they’re much more likely to pay attention, remember, and be impacted by that story. With Humane Education books, this is truly invaluable. We want children to absorb what we’re teaching them about how to be kind to others, animals, and the environment. After all, these kids are the potential humane educators of the future!

Below is a list of diverse and inclusive books that can be used for Humane Education purposes. 

Lola Gets A Cat by Anna McQuinn (Grades Pre-K-1)

Teaches about how to prepare for a new cat, what they need and how to be a responsible pet owner even at a young age.

The Summer Nick Taught His Cats To Read by Curtis Manley (Grades Pre-K-1)

Cats can have different personalities and that’s okay! This can be an introduction to teaching kids about how reading out loud to pets can be beneficial for them.

Hello Goodbye Dog by Maria Gianferrari (Grades K-1)

Every dog is different, and some are good at things others are not. In Moose’s case, he turns out to be really good at being a therapy dog! 

Cece Loves Science by Kimberly Derting (Grades K-3)

This book teaches all about how it’s okay to ask questions and be curious, and to use science to find out the answers! This is part of a series including Cece Loves Science, Libby Loves Science and Vivi Loves Science. 

Katie Fry, Private Eye: The Lost Kitten by Katherine Cox (Grades 1-2)

This book teaches about how to be observant and look for clues, and how to help others in need. This is also part of a series. 

Bathe The Cat by Alice B. McKinty (Grades K-3)

This book touches on the importance of following instructions and being organized when you’re trying to get chores completed!

Home For Meow: The Purrfect Show by Reese Eschmann (Grades 4-8)

This book is all about finding solutions for problems! One of those particular problems is  trying to get cats adopted into new homes! This one is also part of a series.

PAWS: Gabby Gets It Together by Nathan Fairbairn (Grades 4-8)

This is a very good read about how to solve interpersonal problems between friends and how to make compromises so that everyone is happy. This one is part of a series and is SUPER popular with our middle schoolers at JHS. 

Rez Dogs by Joseph Bruchac (Grades 4-8)

This is a poetry book in the style of oral storytelling. It talks about COVID-19 and Native American history. Forewarning: some of the imagery may be distressing. 

Animal Rescue Friends by Gina Loveless (Grades 4-8)

This book includes multiple stories of kids with different personalities and backgrounds who all help at a local animal shelter to take care of very special animals of all shapes and sizes. This one is also part of a series. 

These are just some of the many books I’ve tracked down. They feature characters of many different races, backgrounds, abilities and personalities. I hope you or your programs can utilize some of them!

Have more book suggestions not on this list, or questions about Humane Education books? I would love to hear about them! You can reach me at bbyrne@jaxhumane.org.

Processing Companion Animal Death with Children

By: Emily Strongin, Director of Education, Humane Society of Charlotte & Owner, Peaceful Tails Doula

Years of working and volunteering in animal welfare has taught me the importance of accepting death as a regular and frequent topic of discussion.  As the current Director of Education at the Humane Society of Charlotte (HSC) as well as an end-of-life doula, my goal is to embrace death and walk people through the process and difficult conversations.  If you get nothing else from this blog, I hope that the resources provided will be useful in either your professional or personal life.

I began my doula journey in 2023 after speaking to people about their beloved pets and hearing stories about their confusion and grief in the animal’s final days/hours/minutes. The death may have been sudden or long expected; but regardless, losing a companion animal deeply impacts our lives. Hospice and Palliative Care often leave little time for in-depth conversations about quality of life, questions, humane euthanasia, the after care of the remains, coping with grief, etc. I realized there was a need for support and that’s where I got started. 

In 2024 I completed the UVM Companion Animal End-of-Life Professional Certificate Program and received the Animal Advocate Certificate from the International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care (IAAHPC). The skills I gained through those courses allow me to share doula work, as well as be a better animal welfare professional.

I have had the privilege to work at the Humane Society of Charlotte for the past three years with the focus of growing youth programming. HSC hosts 8 weeks of summer camp each year and part of the camp experience is taking the kids on tours of the facility, including a daily walk of the adoption floor to visit the dogs and cats. As you can imagine, the kids tend to quickly form attachments to their favorite animals, and it’s always fun to share the joy when the animals are adopted. However, when an animal is no longer in the kennel due to behavioral euthanasia (following the tenets of socially conscious sheltering), it can lead to an uncomfortable conversation. These situations were another catalyst that inspired me to pursue becoming a doula — so that I could try to understand how children cope with the death of an animal.

For some basic tips, here is what I recommend: When speaking to children about death, be sure you’re speaking with simple, honest, and clear language. It’s also important to be respectful of the child and their family’s different spiritual, religious, and cultural beliefs. Don’t make assumptions, and absolutely include the families from the beginning. People’s experience with death and dying is unique to them. We have the opportunity to support children and their families to have safe/open conversations about the reality of death and the beauty of life. 

I have included below a list of suggested resources that I have found extremely helpful throughout my journey.  For further discussion or any questions, please feel free to contact me at emily@peacefultailsdoula.com.

Suggested Resources:

Books to Help Children Grieve the Death of a Pet

The mental health effects of pet death during childhood: Is it better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all? - PMC

Helpful Picture Books on Death and Grief: Part 1 — Little Readers Future Leaders

Coping with the loss of a pet | American Veterinary Medical Association

Nine family-friendly ways to memorialise a pet

11 Ways Your Kids Can Remember Their Pet | Paws Into Grace

6 Family Friendly Ways to Help Kids Grieve After Pet Loss | Psychology Today

Helping Children cope with the death of a beloved pet - Rainbow Bridge