A class pet can be an invaluable experience for elementary school children. The pet can teach responsibility, build a connection to the classroom, serve as a motivator, and be something for the children to love. If the teacher is willing to take on the added responsibility of caring for an animal in addition to all of the children in the classroom, a class pet can be a wonderful addition to a class.

    Many factors need to be taken into consideration when choosing a class pet. It cannot be too big, as classrooms generally have limited space. Cost should also be considered since the teacher will likely have to pay for the pet, its food and its habitat. It must also be somewhat hardy (耐寒的). Each particular type of animal has its advantages and disadvantages, and a teacher must weigh these and make a decision about which one is right for his or her class.

    Birds are physically more delicate (娇养) than many other animals. They will not survive in drafts (气流) and need a somewhat regulated temperature in their environment. Many birds are quite social and do best with other birds or when being handled routinely by people who can be appropriate with them. Young children are not likely to have the skill to handle a bird without harming it, making it a poor choice for a class pet.

    Some reptiles are beautiful to look at but are delicate, afraid of cold, light sensitivity or poisonous and shouldn't be handled by children. Others are more hardy but require expensive habitats. Most snakes eat rats and mice, which may be a frightening thing for small children to witness.

    A hardy fish, such as a betta, is a good low-cost option for a class pet. They are obviously not huggable or able to be caught by children. Besides, they are inexpensive, have relatively long life spans, and can be kept in a simple fish bowl.