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Neighbors | Jessica Harker .Austintown teacher Dana Patrick brought her therapy dog, Reese, to the Austintown library June 21 to listen to children read.
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Neighbors | Jessica Harker .Trinity, a sixth grader in Girard schools, read to thereapy dog Reese at the Austintown library June 21.
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Neighbors | Jessica Harker .Children were able to choose from a number of books to read to volunteer Dana Patrick and her therapy dog, Reese, at the Austintown library.
By JESSICA HARKER
Austintown library hosted the monthly Read to Reese event on June 21.
Austintown Elementary School teacher Dana Patrick volunteers to bring her dog Reese, a registered therapy dog, to the library to listen to children read.
“Reading is fundamental,” said librarian Rhonda Monroe. “It can have a real impact on students confidence.”
During the event Reese, a miniature golden doodle, sits in a meeting room with Patrick, with children taking turns coming in to read.
Monroe said that Patrick visits the library for an hour, with children visiting in 15 minute intervals.
Usually, Monroe said about seven children are able to read to Reese in one session.
“We see a huge impact with the children who come back consistently,” Monroe said.
She explained that practicing reading aloud helps children develop their reading comprehension and speaking skills.
Patrick said that research shows reading to an animal helps reduce stress and anxiety for readers of any age.
Monroe said that the event is usually popular, but often picks up during the summer.
To secure a spot at the next event you can preregister at www.libraryvisit.org.