I taught second grade for years before I became an art teacher

Hear, O listeners, the words of Karen Pence, who once declared: “I taught second grade for years before I became an art teacher, and I would always encourage the parents to get some kind of pet that their children had to take care of, because I think it teaches responsibility. And caring for an animal is just a good experience for kids.” Though humble in tone, these words carry the weight of deep wisdom, for they speak not merely of pets, but of the shaping of character and the ancient bond between humankind and creature.

To teach the very young in second grade is to plant seeds in the most fertile soil. At this tender age, the heart is impressionable, the will is soft, and habits are being formed that will guide a lifetime. The teacher who encourages the care of a pet is not merely adding joy to the child’s home, but weaving the first threads of discipline and empathy. The animal, in its simplicity, becomes a silent instructor, teaching lessons that no book can fully explain.

For in tending to a pet, the child learns responsibility. The feeding at dawn, the cleaning of cages, the walking under sun or rain—these are tasks that demand consistency. No excuses, no delays. The pet waits faithfully, depending wholly on its caretaker. And the child, in answering this call, begins to understand the weight of duty, the importance of following through. This is a lesson that will one day grow into the ability to keep promises, to tend to families, to shoulder the burdens of adulthood with strength.

But the lessons do not end there. In the act of caring for an animal, the child also learns compassion. To comfort the frightened dog, to nurse the wounded bird, to cradle the small kitten—these awaken tenderness. They show the child that life is fragile, that gentleness is power, and that every living being has value. It is through this that empathy blossoms, shaping a soul not only strong in duty but also rich in kindness.

Consider, O listener, the tale of Saint Francis of Assisi, who, centuries ago, was known for his love of animals. He spoke to birds, tamed wolves, and saw in every creature the reflection of divine creation. His tenderness was not weakness but strength, for it moved men’s hearts and taught them that to care for the least of beings is to walk in harmony with heaven itself. In the same way, a child who learns to care for a pet learns to see beyond himself, to honor life in all its forms.

The meaning of Karen Pence’s words is thus profound: in the small act of bringing a pet into a home, a great act of education is achieved. It is a schooling of the heart, of character, of responsibility, and of love. Where books shape the mind, the care of animals shapes the soul. This is why she encouraged parents to grant their children this gift, for it is not a toy, but a teacher disguised in fur, feathers, or scales.

The lesson, O child of tomorrow, is clear: do not withhold from the young the chance to serve, to care, to nurture. Shielding them from responsibility robs them of growth, but entrusting them with it ennobles their spirit. Let the pet in the household be not a burden, but a bridge, guiding the child toward maturity and kindness.

Practical action follows: if you are a parent, consider what living creature your household can sustain, whether humble goldfish or loyal dog. Place into your child’s hands the duty of care, and walk with them in that journey. If you are young, embrace the tasks given to you, and see in them not drudgery, but training for greatness. For in feeding, in cleaning, in comforting, you are shaping not just an animal’s life, but your own.

Therefore, remember Pence’s wisdom: the act of caring for a pet is no small thing—it is the shaping of character, the cultivation of responsibility, and the awakening of compassion. Let no child grow without the chance to serve something weaker than themselves, for in that service they will learn what it means to be strong, noble, and fully human.