Take Reading to the Dogs

This fantastic program is called “Reading Education Assistance Dogs” or “R.E.A.D.”

In 1999, Intermountain Therapy Animals, a non-profit organization, began a program using dogs to help children learn to read. These canines are not just ordinary dogs, they are “therapy” dogs, who have been specifically picked and trained to listen to children read. Intermountain Therapy Animals chooses dogs based on their temperament, skills, health, and safety issues. 

It’s an idea that children find irresistible. Dogs and kids, and kids and dogs. They go together like peanut butter and jelly. The dog doesn’t get mad, judgemental, or impatient. In return the child doesn’t get frustrated, bored or embarrassed.

Image by Author

OK…so it’s a lot of fun. But what about the bottom line? Does it improve reading? According to R.E.A.D. the results are extremely positive, and extremely significant. And the benefits don’t stop at better reading. Results are showing that the child becomes more self-confident, does better in other academic subjects, and, interestingly enough shows improved hygiene!

R.E.A.D. programs are showing up everywhere. Libraries, preschools, detention centers, schools, and clubs are some of the lucky places implementing this creative program. A trained dog handler accompanies the dog.

Ask your Humane Society, they might know of some programs in your area like the ones listed below: 

• Bideawee’s Reading to Dogs Program (Manhattan Area)
• Tales for Tails (Notre Dame)
• Marin Humane Society Dog Library Program

Besides dogs, or if your child is afraid of dogs, there are other ways to interest your child in reading, like free on-line activities. See this related article: 5 Great Free Websites to Help your Child learn to Read English.