Libraries book labradors to help children read
LABRADORS are becoming a familiar sight amid the bookshelves of North Yorkshire libraries as the service embraces a scheme designed to boost literacy levels among young children.
Libraries in both Selby and Malton have recently signed up to the Read2Dogs initiative, which originated in America, and it is hoped more will follow suit.
The calming effect of the dog’s presence and the fact man’s best friend will listen to children read without correcting pronunciations or interrupting has been proven to increase confidence necessary for reading aloud.
One mother, who brings her daughter to the sessions at Selby because she has selective autism and a possible social communication disorder, said: “My daughter has never read aloud to anyone other than close family members at home.
“At first she settled down next to one of the dogs on the floor and started whispering to him as she read. The longer she stroked him, the more relaxed she became, and by the end of the book she was reading aloud.
“I feel this service is so important for anyone who struggles to read aloud, especially for those with special educational needs and disabilities.”
A taster session will take place at Malton library this Wednesday from 10am and will be followed by a six-week programme, starting from February 25 and running each Tuesday from 5 to 6pm. Those interested can book a 10-minute slot and if they prove popular, the library hopes to make them a regular feature.
North Yorkshire County
Council’s executive member for libraries, Coun Greg White, said: “Read2Dogs is another example of how libraries across North Yorkshire are leading the way with finding inclusive and innovative activities.
“We’ve had children of all abilities come along and improve their skills, and it’s amazing to think that something so simple can make such a huge difference.”