READING DOG

Introducing Cerys:

Cerys is a Cockapoo who is owned by Mr Chris Jupe, our Librarian. According to the Kennel Club breed standards, they are intelligent and easy to please. The Cockapoo was established as a companion dog. Cerys has an outgoing nature and works in our library, supports our homework club and works with pupils who are reluctant readers.

Reading programmes with dogs are doing wonders for some pupils. Children who might be embarrassed to read aloud to the class or even adults are likely to be less scared to read to a dog.

“It might be less stressful for a child to read aloud to a dog than to a teacher or a peer. After all, a dog won’t judge or correct you.”

Dogs are used to encourage struggling readers to practice reading aloud. With the presence of a “calm and well-trained dog,” pupils find social support and peer interaction.

Dogs are incredibly calm and happy to have pupils read to them or join a group of children in the library whilst they are having a book reading session.

Dogs give unconditional acceptance, as they are non-judgemental, which is especially crucial to struggling, emerging readers. The dogs also provide confidence to children, as they do not make fun of them when they read.

Above all, they make amazing listeners, providing the children with a sense of comfort and love. Research has proven that pupils who read to dogs show an increase in reading levels, word recognition, a higher desire to read and write, and an increase in interpersonal skills amongst the pupils they mix with.