Albea
03-21-2003, 09:42 AM
The owners of a book store in Connecticut have donated an entire reading room and converted it into a kid and pet-friendly haven where children, 6 to 8, can go once a week and read stories to dogs. One of the volunteers who runs the program says that the purpose is to connect a child with a "non-judgemental listener" who can help children gain confidence in reading.
Chloe, a 7 year old girl reading "Beauty and the Beast" to a French bulldog, said she loves it "because dogs are cuddly" and "they are more patient than people." Another little girl said that is better to read to a dog "because the dog really listens to you." :D
The dogs are certified by the National Delta Society's Animal Assisted Therapy program.
The idea has become so well received that many other towns are considering starting their own programs.:cool:
Chloe, a 7 year old girl reading "Beauty and the Beast" to a French bulldog, said she loves it "because dogs are cuddly" and "they are more patient than people." Another little girl said that is better to read to a dog "because the dog really listens to you." :D
The dogs are certified by the National Delta Society's Animal Assisted Therapy program.
The idea has become so well received that many other towns are considering starting their own programs.:cool: