Why caring for a pet or even a houseplant could help children learn self-care habits

New research reveals why small caring routines could support children’s emotional wellbeing.

Boy with down syndrome gently holding his dog's paw

Svetlana Repnitskaya/Getty

Published: May 19, 2026 at 4:18 PM

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New research released during Mental Health Awareness Week suggests that caring for something else, whether it’s a pet, houseplant or even everyday household tasks, could play an important role in family self-care routines.

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The study, commissioned by CASIO’s AI companion Moflin, found that almost two-thirds of UK adults feel better after looking after something else, while parents and younger generations increasingly believe children should be taught self-care habits from an early age.

Experts say these small “micro-responsibilities” can help children build emotional awareness, healthy routines and moments of calm in busy daily life.

Why small caring habits matter for children

According to the OnePoll survey of 2,000 UK adults, 89% of people believe it is important to educate children about self-care early on, despite only 22% saying they were taught about it themselves as children.

When asked about the biggest benefits for children, adults said self-care habits could:

The findings also showed that the average British adult practises self-care four times a week, often through simple routines rather than expensive wellness trends.

Popular self-care activities included walking, reading, listening to music, gardening and looking after pets or houseplants.

The importance of “micro-responsibilities”

Researchers found that 57% of UK adults see caring for something else as a valuable form of self-care.

For many people, those small responsibilities can create moments of calm and routine during stressful periods. In fact, 42% said they find caring for something else rewarding or comforting, while 29% said it gives them a sense of calm.

Dr Zoe Williams, who partnered with Moflin for the campaign, said perceptions of self-care are shifting.

We’re seeing a shift in how people think about self-care - it’s becoming more personal and less prescriptive.

Dr Zoe Williams

She explained: “The research shows that self-care doesn’t have to mean spa days or meditation; it can be found in caring for something else, whether that’s a plant or a treasured object.

“This ‘Care Effect’ creates an external form of mindfulness, helping to calm the nervous system, clear the mind and restore a sense of balance.”

Could caring for pets and plants help children emotionally?

While the research focused on adults, the findings may resonate with parents already encouraging children to help feed pets, water plants or take part in simple household routines.

Experts have long linked small responsibilities with helping children develop independence, confidence and empathy. Tasks that feel manageable can also help younger children feel involved and capable within family life.

The survey found many adults now turn to practical activities as part of their own self-care routines too, including tidying, cooking, meal prepping and gardening.

Other popular forms of self-care included:

What is Moflin?

CASIO’s palm-sized emotional companion, Moflin, marks Mental Health Awareness Week with new research revealing micro-responsibilities, like caring for something else, can support our mental wellbeing.

Casio

The research was commissioned by CASIO’s Moflin, a small AI-powered companion designed to respond to cuddles, voices and interaction over time.

Unlike a traditional toy, Moflin uses emotional AI to develop different reactions and behaviours based on how owners interact with it. According to CASIO, each device develops a unique emotional profile over time.

Dr Zoe Williams said products and routines that encourage moments of mindfulness may complement more traditional self-care methods.

This ‘Care Effect’ creates an external form of mindfulness, helping to calm the nervous system, clear the mind and restore a sense of balance.

Dr Zoe Williams

The study comes as conversations around children’s emotional wellbeing and family mental health continue to grow, particularly during Mental Health Awareness Week.

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For many families, the findings suggest self-care may not always need to look like wellness trends or big lifestyle changes. Sometimes, it could be as simple as watering a plant together, feeding the cat or creating small calming routines at home.

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