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Why parents should get their daughters a pet: animals can help girls feel more confident and creative

Why parents should get their daughters a pet: animals can help girls feel more confident and creative

New LEGO research finds animal friendships boost girls’ imagination, confidence and self-belief.

Little girl kissing her Goldendoodle dog.

MadeForMums

Published: February 2, 2026 at 12:42 PM

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A girl’s favourite pet or cuddly toy might be doing more than just keeping her company. According to new global research from the LEGO Group, friendships with animals, both real and imagined, play a powerful role in boosting girls’ confidence, creativity and emotional wellbeing.

The findings come as part of a new chapter in LEGO’s She Built That campaign, which aims to challenge outdated stereotypes and encourage girls to see themselves as builders in every sense, from problem solving to storytelling and self-belief.

With many girls saying animals are among their closest confidants, the research highlights how play rooted in care, imagination and connection can help girls feel happier, braver and more creative in everyday life.

What the LEGO study found about girls and animal friendships

The LEGO Group commissioned a global survey of 13,250 children aged 6 to 16 across 13 countries. One clear message stood out, animal friendships matter deeply, especially for girls.

The study found that girls are more likely than boys to form strong emotional bonds with pets and animal toys, and that these relationships play an important role in their social and emotional development.

Key findings from the research

40% of girls say playing with animal toys boosts their happiness
36% say animal toys help spark their imagination
34% say their toy animal makes them feel more creative
22% say their pet has taught them to be more confident and believe in themselves
41% say a pet has helped teach them how to be caring, kind and look after others

More than half of girls worldwide describe their relationship with pets as comforting, while around a third say it feels supportive or adventurous. Many also say animals are where they turn when they need to share worries or secrets, often ahead of teachers or other adults.

Why animal play can build creative confidence

Animal toys in particular appear to unlock imagination. Nearly one in three girls say their animal toy has inspired them to draw, write or build something new, while many of their happiest memories involve being silly or creative with pets or toy animals.

This kind of imaginative play is a key part of how children explore emotions, build confidence and practise storytelling, all skills that LEGO’s She Built That campaign is designed to nurture.

To bring these findings to life, the LEGO Group has teamed up with wildlife conservationist and animal lover Bindi Irwin. Growing up surrounded by animals, Bindi has long spoken about the role they played in shaping her curiosity and confidence.

Now a mum herself and CEO of Australia Zoo, Bindi is leading the latest LEGO Creativity Workshops, designed to encourage children aged 6 to 12 to explore animal-inspired building and storytelling.

Animals have been part of my life since I was born. They’ve always been my friends and greatest teachers, turning ordinary days into adventures. Every child deserves a friend who sparks confidence, curiosity, and creativity.

Bindi Irwin, wildlife conservationist and CEO of Australia Zoo

How to help children build a safe, happy bond with a pet

While the benefits of growing up with animals are clear, early years experts say preparation is key. Many families consider welcoming a pet into their home, but children need guidance to learn how to interact safely, respectfully and responsibly.

Emily Burgess, Director of Early Years at Family First Nurseries, one of the UK’s leading early years providers, says pets can be incredibly enriching for children when the right foundations are in place.

“Having a pet can be an enriching experience for children. Caring for an animal helps them practise empathy, responsibility, and gentle behaviour, and pets can offer real comfort and companionship as children grow. From an early years perspective, pets also support children’s social and emotional development,”

With the right preparation, welcoming a pet into the family can be a truly joyful and enriching experience. Children who learn to care for animals with gentleness, empathy and respect carry those qualities into their wider relationships and daily lives.

Emily Burgess, Director of Early Years at Family First Nurseries

8 key lessons children should learn before getting a pet

Emily shared things that parents should make sure their children can do before introducing a child to their new pet.

Approaching animals calmly and respectfully: Children benefit from learning slow movements, gentle voices and giving animals time to feel comfortable, especially younger children who may not realise their own strength.
Understanding gentle touch: Practising stroking soft toys with an open hand or using simple techniques like two-finger tickles helps children learn the difference between gentle and rough handling.
Recognising animal body language: Simple cues such as a dog backing away or a cat flicking its tail teach children that animals have feelings and can become overwhelmed.
Safe handling, boundaries and giving space: Children should learn not to disturb pets while they eat or sleep and to let animals choose when they want contact. These boundaries support both safety and self-regulation.
Taking part in everyday care routines: Small, supervised tasks like refilling water bowls or helping with feeding can build confidence and a sense of responsibility.
Learning basic handling skills: Older children can practise practical tasks such as holding a lead safely or supporting small animals correctly, reducing stress for everyone.
Understanding that pets have feelings and needs: Talking openly about emotions helps children develop empathy and respond with kindness.
Knowing pet care is a shared family responsibility: Children should understand that adults are ultimately responsible for a pet’s health and wellbeing, keeping expectations realistic and animals safe.

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