Blackjack the tutor dog is ready to listen to kids read this summer. (Click on photo to enlarge)
The LaPorte County Public Library will once again launch its summer tutoring program, Tail Waggin’ Tutors, with tutor dogs enlisted in the Therapy Dogs International group. Tail Waggin’ Tutors offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere for students grades K-8 to focus on their reading skills.
The program is meant to help all students with their reading, but it specifically benefits those who have reading difficulties and are often self-conscious when reading aloud in front of classmates. Sometimes, students have low self-esteem as a result of that and are intimidated to read to adults as well.
Reading and patting an attentive dog serves as a relaxing factor so the child can concentrate on reading without being judged. Also, the tutor dogs help those children who have not been around dogs or who have a fear of dogs, understand the animal and relax.
The dates for the program are June 6, 13, 20, 27; July 11, 18, 25; and Aug. 1, all beginning at 4 p.m. To register for the Tail Waggin’ Tutors program, call the Youth Services Department at LaPorte County Public Library at 219.362.7128, or go to the events calendar at www.laportelibrary.org.
To learn more about Therapy Dogs International, visit: http://www.tdidog.org/OurPrograms.aspx?Page=Children+Reading+to+Dogs.