The Columbus (OH) Dispatch ran a great article on April 7th on therapy dogs used by teachers to help chldren with their reading. I had never heard of this specific purpose for dogs, but it sure makes sense. My dogs listen to me sing and tell them stories; why not dogs providing a rapt, nonjudgmental audience for young or reluctant readers.
The article, by Jane Hawes, notes the New Jersey-based Therapy Dogs International and you can learn more about their "tail-waggin' tutors" by clicking on this LINK. There are 19,000 "reader dogs" in the US and Canada!
As the parent of a special needs kid who struggles to read, I am all for this. Dogs love to feel included, to have a job. Kids love dogs. Dogs love to listen. Kids love to learn. Kudos to all involved!
Showing posts with label therapy dogs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label therapy dogs. Show all posts
Saturday, April 18, 2009
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