STORY time came with extra snuggles at Birmingham Dogs Home.
Children were given the chance to brush up on their literacy skills and build confidence as they read aloud in the Read to Dogs sessions at the Catherine-De-Barnes home.
Children aged three and up sat and read to some of the home’s friendly rescue dogs in a relaxed, non-judgemental environment.
The sessions are designed to help children build confidence, improve literacy skills and create positive emotional connections through the calming presence of dogs.
For some children, reading out loud in a classroom or in front of adults can feel overwhelming or embarrassing, especially if they struggle with confidence, anxiety or additional learning needs.
Rachel Frost, events and community fundraising manager, at Birmingham Dogs Home, said: “Dogs do not judge, interrupt or correct, which helps children feel more at ease and encourages them to enjoy reading at their own pace.
“We often see children become more confident by the end of each session.
“Some children who may initially be nervous about reading aloud begin to relax, engage more and even look forward to reading. The sessions can also help improve concentration, communication skills and emotional wellbeing.
“There is also a wider emotional benefit. Spending time around calm dogs can help reduce stress and anxiety levels in children, while also teaching empathy, kindness and understanding towards animals. Many children form a real bond with the dogs, which helps create a safe and supportive atmosphere where they feel comfortable expressing themselves.”
The charity says the sessions are also enriching for the dogs as they receive calm interaction, gentle companionship and positive experiences with people.
