Lefkosia
June 2023
On 1st & 2nd June 2023, pupils at PASCAL Primary School Lefkosia were offered a fantastic and enriching opportunity to take part in the Library Dogs reading programme. All pupils had the chance to meet, read to and feed Foxy, friendly, obedient and happy Pomeranian who listened to each pupil read out loud. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Ms Ana Ward for organising this wonderful event and for bringing this special guest to our school. Our pupils loved reading to Foxy! We can’t wait for next time!
What is the Library Dogs reading programme?
The Library Dogs reading programme encourages children to read by providing a non-judgmental listener and furry friend to read to that won’t laugh at them if they make a mistake or stumble over a word, but rather sit next to them and enjoy the story being read. When a Library Dog is listening, the environment is transformed, a child’s dread is replaced by eager anticipation, and learning occurs.
What are the benefits of the Library Dogs reading programme?
Over time, children’s reading ability and confidence can improve because they are practicing their skills, which will make them enjoy reading even more. Why? Practice makes perfect, and dogs – while lowering blood pressure and cortisol levels, which cause stress – don’t judge!
University studies on reading dog programmes found that participating children make enormous strides in developing their reading and communication skills, while building self-esteem, confidence and social skills. This, in turn, can help to improve performance in other subjects too, as compared to children who did not participate.
Lefkosia
Larnaka
