When challenges and feelings are BIG, there are little things you can do to help make things feel easier for your child. The child-animal bond can be something pure to witness, and giving and receiving touch and affection from an animal can feel good to children and grown-ups alike.  

Together with your child, watch this video in which Elmo, his daddy Louie, and their pup Tango share a special moment. When Elmo’s having a hard time, Louie offers a hug, which helps… a little. Then Tango enters and provides exactly what Elmo needed – some soft fur to stroke and some fuzzy, loving nuzzles. And it turns out Louie needed Tango’s special comfort, too! 

Check out this article on the human-animal bond.