Reading to a Dog

Our local library has a Tail Waggin' Reading Program for kids, whether they be reluctant readers, special needs kids, or reading pros. The program is open to all kids (up to third grade) who want to read to a dog. The dog is special too. Not every dog can qualify as a reading dog, as it needs to be a certified and insured therapy dog. 

Today the therapy dog was a very mellow ten year old white lab. She's a very friendly dog. In fact, one of her other jobs is to cheer people up in the hospital when she's not working at the library. She loves to be petted and talked to, and apparently she loves to be read to also. I did not take any pictures of kids reading to her, but the kids I saw reading to her were content and calm. One little boy was reading to the dog while he nestled his head on her back. Another was sitting on the carpet reading to the dog as though the dog was in the audience in a theater. 

The program is completely free. Our library has 6 therapy dogs and their volunteer persons coming in every Thursday for two hours. The volunteers and their dogs vary the schedule, so it's rare to see the same dog two weeks in a row. During that time, children and their parents come to the library, sign up for a session with the dog, and then they get to read. It's a real treat!

You might wonder if there is any efficacy in reading to a dog and the answer is a resounding YES. Reading aloud is a skill that produces confidence. The dog is non-judgmental, so if mistakes are made, the dog will not correct the reader. Reading aloud increases vocabulary and expression. For children who are not proficient readers, the soothing dog provides a focal point or purpose for reading. Sure, all of this can take place with a person, but it's not the same. A furry friend will give you "strokes" no matter what, unlike a mom or dad or teacher who is trying to teach you a most important lifelong skill.