Title: Read to the Dogs

Day of the week/Time: Friday 3-6, 2 times a month.

Ages: 5-8

Goals: The goal is to have a low stress environment where children can practice their reading skills.

Reasoning for Program: Children that are beginning to read may lack the confidence to read aloud to other people. However, reading with an animal may make it easier for them to get comfortable as animals will just listen and do not judge. This program will increase their literacy skills by practicing reading.

Activities: Children will sign up for a 20 minute session to read aloud to a dog. The session will take place in the enclosed storytime room for privacy. There will be a collection of books for children to choose from, but they can also bring their own book.

Supplies: Books from library collection, dog treats.

Staff: 1 volunteer. Coordinated by a library assistant.

Community Partners: Volunteers with service dogs

Budget: $50 a year for dog treats.

Photo/Video Credit: FPG. Comic Readers And Dog. [Photograph]. Retrieved from Encyclopædia Britannica ImageQuest.
https://quest.eb.com/search/115_2836355/1/115_2836355/cite

Larsen, M. (Creator). (2009). Read to the Dogs (Dove Lewis) [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLb7t-RI1dk