see spot read

See Spot Read is a local program that connects therapy dogs with kids.  its website explains its mission:   

Numerous programs are springing up around the country that recognize the benefits of pairing children with certified therapy dogs to improve reading performance.

Literacy specialists acknowledge that children who are below their peers in reading skills are often intimidated by reading aloud in a group, have lower self-esteem, and view reading as a chore. Dog reading programs are based on the premise that children will find reading to an animal less intimidating than reading to their peers, parents or teachers.

Research with therapy animals indicates that children with low self-esteem are often more willing to interact with an animal than with another person. Being with the dog is relaxing and fun, and builds a positive association with reading activities. Instead of reading being a chore, it becomes something to look forward to when a dog is involved.

See Spot Read volunteers offer a program to Wake County libraries and other facilities that serve children where we bring therapy dogs to work with kids on building reading skills. We're also fostering positive interactions between children and dogs and have seen many kids overcome their shyness or fear of dogs.

now, liam obviously isn't below grade level in reading skills, but i knew he'd enjoy it for other reasons.  so this past sunday afternoon, he chose a book from his personal collection, and my mom and i took him to a local library to participate. he met freddie, a five-year old shepherd mix, plopped down on the floor right next to him, and opened up his book.  (he'd fittingly chosen his all-time favorite, The Best Pet of All, about a little boy who goes to great lengths to convince his mom that he needs a dog.)  and then he read the entire story to freddie.  

i'd be lying if i said that freddie was mesmerized from start to finish.  truth be told, he was facing the opposite direction for much of it.  but he was quiet and attentive, and his handler assured liam that freddie was definitely listening and soaking it all in. 

 

don't you love things like this?  when people see a need that exists among two groups, and come up with a solution that benefits both?  i would have never thought to pair up young readers with therapy dogs, but after seeing it in action, it makes total sense. 

 
as they say, every dog has its day.  and every little boy who has the privilege of reading to one, well, he has his day too.