Bargara State School students looking to improve their reading skills now have the help of a furry friend.
‘Tay’ the English Springer Spaniel is a ‘Story Dog’, part of a voluntary organisation that provides canines for students struggling with their reading skills.
Tay’s owner Caroline Oates said the dogs listen to the children without judgment as they sound out words.
“When children read to a dog, the outcomes are amazing!” Mrs Oates says.
“The accepting, loving nature of dogs gives this program its magic and helps children relax, open up, try harder and have fun while reading to a friendly, calm dog.”
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said becoming Tay’s sponsor was a no brainer.
“It’s important that no child is left behind in literacy, that’s why I jumped at the chance to become a Story Dogs Sponsor,” Mr Bennett says.
“I’d encourage anyone who is thinking of becoming a sponsor to reach out to Story Dogs and visit their website to learn more.”
For more information visit www.storydogs.org.au for a volunteer information kit.
