Once again, we’re planning for our summer event called PAWS TO READ. It’s a wonderful program we’ve done for the past three summers and we’re looking forward to having our pals Stryder and Sandra back at the library. So, just what is Paws to Read?
This is a wonderful program for reluctant readers aged 6 – 10. They visit the library once a week (while we’re closed) and spend a short time reading to our fluffy friend Stryder. Stryder is a standard poodle who has been specially trained as a therapy dog for children. He loves to listen to kids read and he’s really patient. He comes to the library with his owner Sandra who also helps.
If you have a reluctant reader who would like to participate this summer, please give us a call or come to the library to sign up. Your child must be able to read, but might have an issue like lack of confidence or reading issues that prevent him or her from enjoying books. We’re taking names right through to the end of June, and then we’ll set up a schedule for July and August sessions.
Happy Reading!
I participated in the READ program with two different therapy dogs in my local library for six years. It is a rewarding program for the kids, but also for the dogs and handlers. It is a win-win situation. I just retired this year and was sad for it to end. Bravo to your library for opening up its door for this wonderful FREE program!
Thank you! Yes, we’ve enjoyed having it in our library for the past few years, and the dogs and handlers are WONDERFUL with the kids. It’s so much fun to see the kids picking out books each week just for the dogs (usually cat stories, for some reason), and getting excited to show them pictures in the story. We’ve had great success with a few readers who’ve gone on to great improvements in school come the fall.
Thanks for commenting on your own experiences!