How to Care for Goldfish for Children

Goldfish can make great first pets and can help children learn how to care for others and develop an understanding of responsibility. Goldfish are very hardy freshwater fish, and their tank requirements are less demanding than other species of fish. Before purchasing any pet for your child, remember that adults are the primary caregivers and are fully responsible for the animals' welfare.

Things You'll Need

  • 15-gallon aquarium
  • Aquarium air pump
  • Gravel
  • Plants
  • Aquarium-safe figurines
  • Water
  • Aquarium chlorine drops (optional)
  • Aquarium filter
  • High-quality fish food
  • Poster board
  • Stickers
  • Markers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase an aquarium. Goldfish require an aquarium that is at least 15 gallons for one fish. The more goldfish you have, the larger the tank will need to be. Install an aquarium air pump to produce more oxygen in the water. Also, fill the bottom of the tank with gravel and decorate the tank with plants. Allow the children to pick aquarium-safe figurines to put in the tank.

    • 2

      Use water that 70 degrees Fahrenheit, contains no chlorine and has a pH level of 7. Optimal aquarium water conditions greatly affect the lifespan of your goldfish. If you use tap water, let it sit overnight to allow the chlorine to evaporate or use aquarium chlorine drops to treat the water. Replace 10 percent of the aquarium's water daily for an optimal environment for the goldfish. You can also purchase an aquarium filter and just replace 25 percent of the aquarium's water every two weeks. Due to safety reasons for the children and the fish, it is best if an adult is responsible for cleaning the tank.

    • 3

      Provide your goldfish with a high-quality fish flake diet. Allow the child to feed the fish twice a day. Ensure the child is only feeding the fish as much food as the goldfish can completely consume in five to 10 minutes. Have the child make and decorate a fish feeding chart out of poster board, stickers and colored markers. Have the children place a check mark on the days/times when they feed the fish. This way you can monitor the feeding schedule of the fish, and the child can feel a sense of responsibility for their pet.