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!

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.

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Cirra R.E.A.D.s in Maine.

Cirra is ready to find some good books in the library and then take them outside and have a picnic this beautiful spring day. Encourage children to read during school breaks, maybe in the park, at the pool, or later in the evening after a day of fun. Check out these pictures for more ideas on how R.E.A.D. teams celebrate the holidays: Holiday Dogs

Setting a good example!

The benefits of children reading to dogs was also the topic of a Today Show presentation in February 2007 and again in March 2009. You can watch a video of the March segment by clicking on the link below (there will be about 10 seconds of commercials while the video loads):

Click here to watch "Kids reading to dogs."

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

Member, Association of Professional Humane Educators