Animal Assisted Intervention in Metairie is one of the unique therapy services we offer at Kim4Kids. This approach uses specially trained therapy animals to support children’s emotional, social, and developmental goals in a playful and engaging way.
Animal-assisted therapy can complement our occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy programs for a well-rounded approach.
Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI) is a therapy approach that includes trained animals—most often dogs—as part of a child’s treatment plan. These calm and friendly animals work alongside licensed therapists to help children feel more safe, focused, and supported during each session.
Although AAI often includes warm moments of connection, it’s much more than just cuddles. This research-supported approach helps improve emotional regulation, increase communication, and encourage active participation in therapy. As a result, many children become more engaged and willing to try new things.
At Kim4Kids, we offer animal-assisted intervention in Metairie to help children who may benefit from a more interactive and relationship-centered form of therapy. In particular, this approach is helpful for kids who struggle with anxiety, attention, or social skills.
Our trained therapy animals support:
Emotional regulation
Social engagement
Communication development
Confidence in physical or group tasks
Moreover, AAI creates a playful and welcoming space, which can lower stress and make therapy more enjoyable.
Our team incorporates animal assisted intervention in Metairie as part of a holistic, evidence-based approach. These structured sessions use trained therapy animals to help children improve emotional regulation, social interaction, and engagement in ways traditional therapies may not reach.
Each session is designed to meet the child’s unique needs and therapy goals. Our certified therapy animals may:
Join in during motor activities to encourage movement and coordination
Support speech and language tasks (like giving commands or storytelling)
Provide comfort and motivation during challenging moments
Serve as a nonjudgmental companion to help children practice social skills
Help build trust and emotional connection in a safe, playful environment
Whether your child is reading aloud to a calm pup, practicing balance by walking with a dog on a leash, or just relaxing with a furry friend by their side—AAI sessions are full of heart, smiles, and growth.
Kim4Kids offers expert-led, compassionate animal assisted intervention in Metairie. Our therapy team includes licensed professionals trained in AAI methods, and our therapy dog is specially selected for temperament, training, and child compatibility. We provide a safe, welcoming environment where children can connect, learn, and grow through meaningful interactions.