Children reading storybooks to dogs—what could be cuter? But every day we’re learning there’s more than just cuteness when this happens. The smiles on a child’s face, the wagging tail of the dog, the excitement of doing something different (even forbidden in some public places) proves there’s anticipation when it comes to reading in this particular setting. And that’s what it’s all about. Youngsters of all ages are not only learning to read, they’re looking forward to it. They’re learning to love to read!

Sharing stories is very nice.

Computerizing everything seems to be the way of the future, and there have certainly been amazing advances in countless areas as a result of the computer age. But the books in libraries also hold an immeasurable array of places to explore, dreams to ponder, what-ifs to consider. Let's help children discover the joy of reading, the pleasure of holding a book and feeling the pages, the excitement of becoming immersed in what's happening as their minds wander through the story with the characters.

The benefits of children reading to dogs was the topic of a Today Show presentation in February 2007. You can watch watch a video of that feature by clicking here (there will be about 10 seconds of commercials while the video loads):

Dogs can help kids read!

Again, on March 13, 2009, the Today Show presented a segment on how dogs help young readers. Here is a video of that story, as well:

Kids reading to dogs.

Questions, suggestions, or comments? Send me an e-mail at librarydogs@cox.net

Member, Association of Professional Humane Educators