The Read to a Dog Program at eleven Sonoma County Libraries is a unique and heartwarming initiative that brings together children, dogs, and books in a fun and educational setting. I went to the Sebastopol Library to find out more. The Branch Manager, Mathew Rose, was warm and inviting and said, “It’s such a valuable program for teaching literacy.” This program aims to improve children’s reading skills, build their confidence, and provide a safe and comfortable environment to practice reading aloud. Some children feel self-conscious or anxious about reading aloud in front of their peers or adults, but reading to a non-threatening and appreciative audience like a dog can help alleviate some of that pressure.
The family of the children participating gushed about the program, Lisa Meeker “Mimi,” a lifelong library user said, “We heard there was a great program with lots of well-behaved dogs. One of the fabulous things about the program is that children who are self-conscious about reading aloud feel relaxed and just seem to be more comfortable reading to a dog. When we watch children who are less confident readers, they are more willing to take those risks.” Her granddaughter Coralie, 7, was happy to be the 1st in line. Marie “Grammie,” who brought Abigail, 5, and Joshua, 7, continued, “We have a phenomenal time here at Read to a Dog on Wednesdays. It’s a cozy relaxing atmosphere for the children. It’s almost like you’re in your living room.” Ali and her daughter Leela, who told me she is 5 and more than ¾, have participated in the program about 10 times in the past 8 months.
The Read to a Dog Program also helps foster a love of books and reading from a young age. By making reading a positive and enjoyable experience, children are more likely to develop a lifelong passion for books and learning. Additionally, this program helps to instill empathy and compassion in children, as they learn to interact with and care for the therapy dogs during their reading sessions. Studies have shown that reading to animals can have a therapeutic effect on children, reducing stress and anxiety levels and boosting self-esteem and confidence. For children who may be struggling with reading or have special needs, the presence of a therapy dog can provide additional emotional and social support during their reading sessions.
The program collaborates with local animal shelters or therapy dog organizations to bring trained and certified therapy dogs to the library. PALS (Paws As Loving Support) provides some of the therapy dogs. Yvonne Morones, affiliated with PALS for two decades, has 3 dogs in the program and brought a 15-month-old Chihuahua/Jack Russel mix “Taylor Swift.” Yvonne explained, “Every time a child reads to a dog they get a sticker and on their tenth one we have brand new books here and they get to choose a free book, some kids are on their third or fourth book.” There are also recognition awards for excellent reading. The program can also help to raise awareness about the benefits of therapy animals and the importance of animal welfare. PALS (Paws As Loving Support), 4Paws Learning & Wellness Center, Humane Society of Sonoma County, and eleven Sonoma County Libraries are proud to offer this special program that brings together children, dogs, and books in a magical and enriching experience for all involved. The events are free and in person only. To volunteer for the Read to a Dog program or for information about training and certification. please contact the above organizations directly. Click the link below to find the closest participating library near you: https://events.sonomalibrary.org/events/month/2024/06?keywords=read%20to%20a%20dog.
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