School-age children are invited to come practice reading with registered therapy dogs and their owners. Why read to dogs? Most children have a natural affinity for and bond with dogs, and because dogs are non-judgmental, children are less self-conscious while reading aloud to them. Children can improve their reading skills in a fun and relaxed atmosphere, while enhancing self-esteem, motivating speech, and building confidence. Reading to a therapy dog can decrease stress and anxiety in general, and specifically while reading aloud in front of other human listeners! If children associate reading with struggle, worry, or embarrassment, this is a chance to create new and pleasant associations with reading instead! Space is limited and registration is required. Please complete a separate registration form for each person attending, unless everyone in the group will spend time together with one dog during one time slot. After registering, you will receive an email with a link to select a specific time slot with a dog. Time slots are between 10 and 30 minutes, depending on how many dogs we’ll have. Start times will be between 6:30 and 7:20 p.m. If you do not select a time slot promptly, your registration may be cancelled to enable another person to participate. If you don’t receive the email with the link, let us know! Registration will open one week in advance of this program's date.

For KidsFree Admission