R.E.A.D- Reading Education Assistance Dogs

Sometimes, kids who are learning to read get stressed, not because they aren't capable of reading, but because they get nervous and self-conscious. They worry about making mistakes, they worry about not looking smart--and all those worries make it hard to focus. They dread reading in front of their friends, so they often "freeze up" and things just get worse.

When they read with a dog, right away they start to relax, and then they forget about feeling self-conscious or nervous, and pretty soon things start to flow a little better. Before they know it, they are enjoying the experience of reading instead of dreading it. They are even looking forward to the next time. It is simple, and it works beautifully!

"READ to a Dog" is open to children ages 5-12. See below for information on the 2025 spring session dates and Read to a Dog program registration. 

Pre-registration is required. Register by contacting the "Read to a Dog" volunteer at the participating libraries below.