UPDATE: A heartwarming event is underway at the Hobart Library today as children read to furry companions in the Read to a Dog program. This initiative, designed to provide a calming atmosphere for children, particularly school-aged kids, allows them to read aloud to trained comfort dogs, enhancing their reading experience and emotional well-being.
The program, led by Jo Bonner, the branch manager, aims to create a safe space where kids can unwind after a hectic school week. “The dogs are all calm and well-behaved,” she stated, highlighting the positive impact these interactions have on young readers.
Four-year-old Liam Rogers from Hobart was spotted engaging with Michael, a five-year-old K-9 Comfort Dog, under the watchful eye of his parents, Eric and Melissa Rogers, along with dog trainer Dan Fulkerson. “We thought this would be a good experience for him,” Melissa remarked as Liam excitedly petted the dog, saying, “He’s so soft. I think he likes me.”
The Read to a Dog sessions typically occur on Fridays after school, providing students a soothing break. Fulkerson, who volunteers with Lutheran Church Charities, shared that the program not only benefits children but also extends to local nursing homes and hospitals, offering comfort to those in need. This past year, the team even visited a local high school before final exams to ease students’ stress.
Parents have reported positive experiences, noting that interactions with animals can lead to reduced heart rates and blood pressure, fostering a sense of relaxation and empathy among children. “When you pet an animal, your heart rate goes down,” Fulkerson emphasized about the program’s benefits.
Lutheran Church Charities, based in Northbrook, Illinois, collaborates with local community churches to provide support and training for the K-9 comfort dog program. Fulkerson, along with a dozen volunteers from Trinity Lutheran Church, has dedicated numerous hours to ensure both he and Michael are well-prepared to serve the community.
As the event unfolds, it highlights the importance of programs like Read to a Dog in nurturing not just reading skills but emotional health in children. This initiative is gaining traction and is a testament to how community efforts can create significant impacts on young lives.
Stay tuned for more updates on this uplifting event and the future of reading programs at the Hobart Library.
