How dogs in the classroom are helping kids learn to read…

We dog owners have long known the benefits our canine friends offer, and now the rest of the world is beginning to take notice. With dogs frequently being used to provide comfort and therapy to the elderly and ill, there is a new place that having a furry friend around can help out: the classroom.

More and more schools are recognising the calming influence a good-natured dog can have on a child, and kids across the country are getting the opportunity to take advantage of Reading Assistance Dogs while they learn to read.

Unlike even the most well-meaning of adults, a dog doesn’t correct a child’s reading, nor does it criticise or make them feel embarrassed… it simply soaks up all the affection and love and makes reading a pleasurable experience for the child. Studies have shown that children are less inhibited when in the presence of a dog, and therefore more able to relax into reading.

Fun and non-judgmental

Programs such as Reading Labs, an initiative from Assistance Dogs Australia, provides a scheme where dogs and their handlers visit schools specifically to help children with reading difficulties. Richard Lord, CEO of Assistance Dogs, explains how the dogs “not only make reading more fun, but provide a non-judgmental audience”.

For their part, the dog’s handlers, while taking a back seat to their four legged companions in the process, are on hand to help with difficult words if asked and to encourage children to explain things to the dogs.

The introduction of reading assistance dogs into schools just proves that people are catching on to what we’ve known for years: that not only are dog’s man’s best friend, they can be a kid’s best friend as well.

•    For more information on reading assistance dogs and how you can get involved, visit Assistance Dogs Australia

Images by nomenestomen and edwindejongh