Heeling Reading Problems
Newcastle Herald
Saturday May 31, 2008
WE'VE all heard of Mr Ed, the talking horse, and of Skippy the bush kangaroo's human-like exploits now Windale Library has a dog that helps children who are struggling to read.
Toby the cuddly golden retriever is working his magic in his own unassuming way, much to the delight of children and the relief of parents.Toby charms his way into the hearts of his "pupils" letting them pat, cuddle and chat to him before they begin what had often been an arduous task in the past reading.And it has been working wonders, according to Lake Macquarie City Library promotions librarian Tonia Bishop, who believes it is the first program of its type in Australia."Children who have difficulty reading need to practise where they feel safe and accepted without the fear of criticism or judgement," Ms Bishop said."And Toby certainly doesn't do either. He is a wonderful dog. He is very placid and the kids love to read to him."The Bark or Better Reading for Kids program, where children are paired with Toby, a Delta Pet Partners dog, has been running for one term but wasn't officially launched until this week."The feedback after our first term has been extremely positive. We know of one child who had difficulty reading asking if she could get up and read at a recent assembly," Ms Bishop said.The library is hoping to offer the program at more libraries if it can gain sponsorship.Windale schools refer children to the program.
© 2008 Newcastle Herald
