Originally Posted By TALL Disney Guy They don't speak to or teach the children necessarily, but if a kid has trouble learning to read, apparently dogs can help. I just covered an L.A. news segment about a special "Paws to Read" program where the Peoria Humane Society provides furry friends for kids learning to read out loud. The thing is that doggies seem to boost confidence in kids who struggle to read, as they provide unconditional love. <a href="http://www.hoinews.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=24350" target="_blank">http://www.hoinews.com/news/ne ws_story.aspx?id=24350</a> I just did some Googling on this concept, and here are a few quotes from Therapy Dogs International, Inc.: "Libraries and Schools schedule reading hours for children and Therapy Dogs. Children and dogs bond together over a shared story. Children's confidence and reading skills grow in a relaxing environment. It's that simple." "Children have developed a healthy appreciation for dogs and have learned to interact with dogs in a positive supportive situation." "A note received by TDI Handler Jane Bonner from a parent participating in her reading program says, 'Thanks so much! Being able to sit next to a big, but calm dog has really helped my son get over his fears.'" "Bernadette Duvernoy of Hayner Public Library in Alton, Illinois recalls how wonderful the response to her Bow-wow, Pow-wow reading program has been. What started with five or six kids has grown to 25 or more. Several parents commented on how much their children's reading (and desire to read) has improved. Ms. Duvernoy also states, 'These animals have been wonderful for our children. The children learn that the library is a fun place to visit. They learn that dogs are sweet, gentle creatures that deserve respect and kindness.'" "A child from Ashland Public Library says, 'I like the Therapy Dogs to come to the Library because they'll sit there and listen to you read. They love it when you pet them. They're so nice and peaceful. When I grow up, I want to have a Therapy Dog.'" <a href="http://www.tdi-dog.org/childrenreadingtodogs.htm" target="_blank">http://www.tdi-dog.org/childre nreadingtodogs.htm</a> So if anyone here has a child who seems to have trouble learning to read, or ever knows of one, maybe there will be a program like this-or the potential for one--somewhere in your area. This is my "warm fuzzy" story of the night.
Originally Posted By tiggerdis_ At our school we have a registered therapist come in with a dog too. I'm not sure how she works, but it has to do with kids who have problems expressing their feelings (and thus are getting into trouble at school). Kids love it!
Originally Posted By LVBelle Wonder if I can use this to convince my principal that I need to take my puppy to work...
Originally Posted By debtee What a great program, thanks TDG for sharing it! My boys are not trained to help people read but they are trained to bring joy to sick children in hospital or to brighten the day for people in Nursing homes. Sometimes just a pat on the head is enough to make a difference. Goldie's also have an ability to read people and know what it is THEY need from them! Everyone looks forward to a visit by Woody & Toby and all the other dogs of the organisation I belong to. I wish more people believed in the power of animals for healing!
Originally Posted By TALL Disney Guy That's cool, tigger_ (and good luck Belle, lol). And Deb, that's so awesome that Woody & Toby contribute to society. After knowing all about their love and enthusiasm through you here, it's great to see this new side of them---makes me love 'em even more! lol
Originally Posted By Liberty Belle Thanks for sharing the story TDG! >>Everyone looks forward to a visit by Woody & Toby and all the other dogs of the organisation I belong to.<< Deb, what's the organisation? That sounds really cool. Is it only golden retrievers or all sorts of dogs?
Originally Posted By fkurucz >>They don't speak to or teach the children necessarily, but if a kid has trouble learning to read, apparently dogs can help.<< The downside is that they end up talking like Scooby Doo
Originally Posted By beamerdog Very cool. I had heard of this program. I always wanted to do this with Liberty (my flunked-out service puppy) but I'd have to take Jackson (the real service dog) along and he'd have a hissy fit if Liberty was getting all the attention, lol.
