Certified Reading Assistance Dogs
Meet the Dogs!
SitStayRead is proud to introduce you to some of the extraordinary Certified Reading Assistance Dogs that volunteer with us with our new Dog Stories series.
Introducing: Our Certified Reading Assistance Dogs
Dog Stories celebrate the amazing Dog Teams that volunteer with us, and in particular, highlight the furry side of the duo! Every prospective Dog Team Volunteer goes through our traditional Book Buddy training and then beyond that, participates in extra training and certification for their dogs to become perfect volunteers alongside them. Our programs would not be possible without the dedication of these handlers and their dogs.
Why dogs in the classroom?
There are countless benefits of using dogs as a tool in SitStayRead’s literacy programs.
In addition to giving students a fun, positive association with reading and writing, dogs also provide numerous physical and mental health benefits. Studies have shown that interacting with a dog helps to lower blood pressure and cortisol levels. This helps students feel more comfortable, less stressed, and better able to focus on their work.
SitStayRead dogs provide a non-judgmental sounding board for out-loud reading. Students who get the chance to read out loud to one of the Certified Reading Assistance Dogs in their classroom are less likely to feel worried about making mistakes, which helps them to become more confident readers!
Dog Teams not only help students with reading, but also help them develop critical social-emotional skills like empathy and self-control, while deepening their understanding on how to care for and be safe around dogs. Students get to know the SitStayRead Certified Reading Assistance Dogs and often ask about them year after year!
Dog Stories
Take a look at some of our Dog Teams below and learn more about them and the invaluable role they play in delivering meaningful literacy enrichment and bringing confidence to our young readers!
Help Chicago Students Become Confident Readers
When young students build strong literacy skills early, their confidence grows– in the classroom and beyond. Help support Chicago early literacy programs by donating or becoming a volunteer.