|
 Buster,
a lovable pug, tilts his head and fixes his one good eye on a reading
child. You’d swear he was listening to the story.
A certified therapy dog in the Tail
Waggin’ Tutors program of Therapy Dogs International, Buster arrives for
reading lessons at Sheridan Preparatory Academy every other Tuesday.
Students clamber to see who gets to read to him each time.
Principal Cecily Wilson isn’t keen on
canines but was open to the idea that they might help struggling readers
improve their skills and confidence. Since the program began in her
school in January, she’s seen apprehensive readers benefit from reading
stories to their new furry friends.
With parent permission, children who need
extra reading help have the opportunity to practice for either Buster or
a German shepherd named Arabelle.
Some of the students are learning to read
and speak English. Others are reading below grade level. Most lack
confidence – until they go before their four-legged, tail-wagging
audience.
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