Robin is a big fan of reading and libraries! Our local library in the main town does a lot of different events throughout the year; reading challenges, read-a-longs, and even reading to a dog! Reading to a dog is not something I had ever heard of before, so when Robin read a sign about the program and was super interested in it, we decided to book it up.
Reading to a Dog can be found at many different Essex libraries. The dog that you get to read to comes on a specific day once a month and slots book up fast, so you will need to check with your local library or check online to see when the reading dog is visiting you. We were able to easily email in, asking what slots were still open, then booking them up. The reading slots are 10 minutes long, so you may want to get there a bit before and pick out a book, as it’s a short but sweet session.
Robin picked a book from the book bin and sat down eagerly next to Berty, the anxiety dog that she was reading to for the day! This dog had on his harness, showing he was working as an anxiety dog. The trainer explained what the job of an anxiety dog would be and that Berty was getting some practice in so that he could be a fantastic anxiety dog. Robin was then ready to read his book to him. Berty was only distracted once during the reading – when someone opened a food packet – and otherwise was absolutely perfect.
During the reading, the trainer asked Robin questions about what she was reading and engaged with her, which was fantastic for her. Berty was there, cuddling and being attentive. It was a really positive experience for all involved. Robin got a little sticker at the end and got to pose for some pictures, before giving Berty some final pets and returning her book.
Local libraries are such a valuable part of every community, and if you live in the Essex area, you should really check out the events they are holding, as it’s a great way to get your child interested in reading and participate in free activities that can fill up your day! Berty was an amazing dog to read too, and it was fun telling Robin all about dogs with jobs.
You can check out our other Days Out to see what else we’ve been up too!
What a lovely activity and I can see this being a popular one that kids will love to sign up for
Aww, this is so cute! Everybody loves story time, it seems. Absolutely adorable.
That is super cool! I actually read out loud to my dog sometimes when I’m reading a novel. He gets into into it. LOL
Going to the library is our favorite pastime. We’re so lucky to have an amazing one just a couple of blogs away from home. We will be going there this Saturday.
Robin seems to be loving this experience of reading to a dog. That dog looks so attentive as if grasping every word.
I think this is such a lovely idea and can see it being very popular, especially for those children who do not have pets at home
They look so cute to see. Reading books while sitting with a dog is so cool experience.
I can tell she truly enjoyed her experience! Just too cute!!
What a fantastic idea! Reading to a dog sounds like a unique and heartwarming experience. It’s wonderful that your local library organizes such diverse events, including reading challenges and read-a-longs. Robin’s enthusiasm for the program is truly delightful – it’s not only a great way to encourage reading but also adds an extra layer of joy to the process. Kudos to your library for fostering such a supportive and engaging reading community!
Adorable! Berty sounds like the best reading buddy ever Great idea, checking out the library’s events.
Reading to a dog is such a good way to inspire reading and I imagine the dog enjoys it also.
That sounds like something different but great to encourage kids to read. I’d love to take my son to do that.
That is one of the most precious ideas! Berty looks so, so sweet…sign me up next time! Haha I love this and I think it’s a brilliant idea for the little ones too.
This is the sweetest library event ever! Such a great way to get kids reading, and amazing practice for the dog too.
Loved your review of the program – such a heartwarming initiative!