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| | Suggestions for Joining an Animal-Assisted Reading Program! |
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We think it's so great you're interested in being part of an animal-assisted reading program! We at Reading with Rover commend you! So, where should you start? |
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We recommend that you start with your local elementary schools, libraries, bookstores, community centers (including boys and girls clubs), and any established therapy animal groups in your area. These agencies can be a great source of information and encouragement to you when trying to find your place within your community. Be prepared for some people to tell you they think it is a great idea but they have no idea where to start -- this is not unusual. But don't let it hold you back. Keep looking. Many times, agencies that don't already have a program in place, know of someone else who does. There's your lead! Follow it and see where it goes! |
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Once you locate an established animal-assisted reading program, find out when they meet, where they conduct their reading sessions, and try to get the name of a contact person with whom you may speak regarding participation. Go to the meetings, attend a reading session, talk directly to the contact person for the reading group. The way to get involved is to pursue the people who are already involved and do what they do! |
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Online sources do exist. You can check with Delta Society online and do a search for Pet Partner teams in your area. These people can be a great resource to help you find an established animal-assisted reading program and can help guide you to additional resources. Another great resource for animal-assisted reading program information is the Intermountain Therapy web site and, more specifically, their R.E.A.D. pages. R.E.A.D. stands for Reading Education Assistance Dogs. The R.E.A.D. group has a great deal of experience, literature, videos and other materials that can help you get started and further your understanding of animal-assisted reading programs. |
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Try querying in your favorite Internet search engine online for animal-assisted reading programs to find other existing programs. Send inquiries to them asking for any information they can provide. There are many animal-assisted reading programs throughout the entire world that simply do not publicize their activities outside their local communities. Nonetheless, they can be great sources of information -- and very generous too. |
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These are just a few suggestions to get you started. By listing these few, we are by no means saying this list is exhaustive -- it's not! Keep your eyes and ears open. Talk to everyone you can about your interest. You are sure to find a group with like interests in a reading program. |
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Again, congratulations on your initiative and interest in children's literacy! We welcome you to the effort! |
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All the best, |
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Becky Bishop and the entire Reading with Rover Team |
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Reading with Rover, Delta Society, Intermountain Therapy, and R.E.A.D. are copyright-protected names of their respective organizations. |
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