Canines for Christ Reading Buddies

Therapy dogs have become increasingly popular in schools as a way to support student learning and well-being. In particular, some schools have implemented programs where therapy dogs serve as reading buddies for students. These programs involve trained therapy dogs visiting classrooms and joining students while they read aloud. The presence of the dogs can help to reduce anxiety and create a calming atmosphere, which can be especially helpful for students who struggle with reading. 

Additionally, interacting with the dogs can increase students' motivation to read and provide a non-judgmental audience for them to practice their skills. Therapy dogs can serve as valuable resources in schools, supporting the emotional and academic needs of students.

While therapy dogs can be a great addition to any classroom, having children read to them one on one can provide the most benefit. This can lead to a deeper connection between the child and the dog, as well as a more comfortable and less distracting environment for the child. The child often forgets the handler is even listening and their canine audience is fully engaged and enjoying the bond.

In a library setting, this happens with even the smallest children. Toddlers can turn pages then show and explain to the dog what is in the pictures. This is reading! When children read with therapy dogs, they are exposed to the joy and value of reading, which can help children develop a lifelong love of books and learning.

Programs can be started by simply contacting a local school. Public, private, charter and of course Christian schools have all been receptive to starting therapy dog programs with Canines for Christ. 

A few tips before getting started:

• Know your dog's personality. Your dog must love children and busy classrooms. They can be excited to see the students but then have the ability to calm down and remain still while the child is working or reading.
• Pray for the right opportunity to be presented. There is a high demand for this kind of program in schools. It can work best with a school that is conveniently located to you so you can visit regularly and form a bond with the school community.
• Create some fun items to give to the children. Students love coloring sheets, book marks, and stickers! We can help you design these with your dog's picture and name.

We are so excited that you have a calling for Reading Buddies ministry! We would love to walk alongside you and support you.

Other ways we can serve our local schools:

• Counseling Staff 
• Peer Mediation
• Finals / Exams
• Mental Health Awareness
• Crisis / Intervention – Suicide etc
• Offer Community Service Opportunities (Jr Handler Program)
• Assemblies for Awareness (Therapy / Service)
• Encourage Teachers / Staff / Students

If interested in getting involved with the Reading Buddy program, please contact

Chaplain Ayla Rahmberg at aylarahmberg@gmail.com. Ayla has been an active member of Canines for Christ since 2018 with her therapy dog, Zoey. They reside in San Antonio, Texas.