By Matthew Jackson
Staff Reporter
HUNTSVILLE —
The Huntsville Public Library will begin a new year of the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (READ) Program this month, with the first session scheduled for an HISD early release day on Sept. 22 from 2-3 p.m.
The program is facilitated by Huntsville Pets Helping People, and features registered therapy dogs interacting with children practicing their reading skills in a safe, comfortable environment.
According to Huntsville Public Library Children’s Coordinator Kim Mason, parents may call and register their child for a session with one of four to five different HPHP dogs during the session. The program is free too all participants.
This is the second year the library has offered the program, which saw positive response from children and parents last year.
“It was very positive,” Mason said. “The kids loved it. Several kids are already calling to come back next year.”
Mason said the program is particularly helpful to troubled or reluctant readers who require a more comfortable environment for reading.
“The children are allowed the opportunity to practice their reading skills in a safe and non-judgmental environment that’s very comfortable. And for reluctant readers it makes the reading experience more fun.”
For more information, visit the library or contact Mason at (936) 291-5472.
