November 9, 2009

Students relax, read and write to therapy dogs at Northwood Elementary

Northwood Elementary School first graders enjoyed a visit from a therapy dog group this month called Tales for Tails coordinated by teacher Kristin Coon.

“The students were excited to practice reading in English to the dogs,” she said. “The main objective of this program is to provide a relaxed and dog-friendly atmosphere which allows students to practice the skill of reading. By sitting down next to a dog and reading to the dog, all threats of being judged are put aside. The child relaxes, pats the attentive dog, and focuses on the reading.

Reading improves because the child is practicing the skill of reading, building self-esteem, and associating reading with something pleasant.”

For further information, Northwood teacher Kristin Coon may be reached at 585-392-1000 ext. 4440.