Seattle-Area Families Find Unexpected Learning Opportunities at Home

Eloise Warren, age 7, discovered that if she ran around her backyard clucking like a chicken, her new puppy would follow her.

“Until the dog learns to come when called, we will just cluck like a chicken,” said her mom, Heidi.

The Warrens brought home their golden retriever puppy, Luna, just before the coronavirus outbreak. They have a fenced-in backyard at their house in Bothell, and Luna, now 3 months old, is learning basic commands (lie down) and tricks (high five).

“I’m just grateful we live in a house with a yard instead of a high-rise apartment, where we can go outside with fresh air,” Heidi said. “Having a puppy forces us to get outside several times a day. I think that has helped us a lot. Just being out in fresh air for 15 minutes several times a day is really good for the body and mind.”

For Eloise, Luna makes for the cutest excuse to take a break from schoolwork and get some exercise. Eloise has been reading puppy-training books and watching videos. She helps feed Luna, gives the pup water and even scoops up poop when it happens.

“I know that this is a challenging time for a lot of people,” Heidi said. “It’s really hard for kids to get their schedule disrupted. All the uncertainty. I'm glad we have a puppy to occupy my daughter. And being an only child, we're not having any playdates, it’s good that she has a puppy.”

The only family member who’s not happy about the new arrival? Their 18-year-old cat.