Multiple studies show that reading to pets increases a child’s reading rate, fluency, test scores, and even student behavior and ability to stay on-task. Kids can sign up to read to dog friends through the READing Paws program at the Nashville Public Library, our most adorable local literacy program. Here’s how:
🐶 About READing Paws
READing Paws is a national nonprofit where registered therapy dogs and their handlers team up with schools, libraries, bookstores, clubs, and more to encourage kids to read. Its mission is to improve children’s literacy skills and confidence. Dogs do not care how many times they listen to “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” nor if young readers make mistakes. They do love being with kids, and vice versa. It’s a perfect combination.
📚 Where To Find READing Paws
You can find therapy dogs ready for story time multiple times a week at Nashville Public Library branches by searching for ‘READing Paws’ on their events page. You don’t need a library card, and it’s free. Arrive at the library within the scheduled time, sign your child up for a reading spot with the children’s librarian, and then have them pick out the perfect library book to read to the therapy dog. You can also bring a favorite book from home!
My daughter and I have been attending READing Paws programs for years. Most recently, she read to Reagan at the Bellevue Library Branch. Reagan retired from working at hospitals to listen to stories from young readers like my daughter. Afterward, we stuck around to listen to a middle schooler read Reagan a “Spiderman” graphic novel!
Other Pet Reading Programs in Middle Tennessee
- Williamson County Animal Center has a Book Buddies program, where kids can read to cats or dogs at the shelter.
- Music City Pet Partners provides reading programs for local schools and libraries.
