Reading

I thought this was a really neat article...

Reading Goes to the Dogs
by Stephanie Gold

Garrett Finley, a second-grader in Pleasanton, California, never liked reading - till a specialist suggested he read to dogs. After three sessions with Sammy, a cavalier King Charles spaniel, Garrett had no further need of specialists. But he loved the experience so much, he still makes every session.

Dogs don't have a judgemental bone in their bodies. They just gaze adoringly as they're read to, a pretty effective technique for helping kids gain confidence and skill. The proof: For every year of reading to dogs, kids move ahead two years in school level. Says Paula Dalby, national team coordinator for Reading Education Assistant Dogs (R.E.A.D.), "The children are so excited to see them, and the dogs get petted and hugged, which is the stuff they live for. It's a pretty positive environment."

To find a R.E.A.D. program, call 801-272-3439.