Portland, Maine - Grace, an 8 year old yellow Labrador retriever, will be visiting the Sam L. Cohen Children’s Library on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month to encourage children to read and to be a furry, non-judgmental listener to young readers. Children can sign-up for a 15 minute session to read to Grace (and her handler) in a quiet area with a book of their choice.
Research shows that Library Reading Dogs help children become more confident readers by providing positive and enjoyable experiences. Reading to dogs gives children important extra practice with reading and oral skills. Studies have shown that reading fluency can increase after participating in a reading to dogs program. Although “reading dog” programs were started for struggling and reluctant readers, everyone is invited to read to Grace.
Grace has been a therapy dog for 4 years and works at Maine Medical Center and assisted living facilities. When Grace isn’t working she enjoys Rally, which is a new dog sport that combines agility and obedience. She lives with her brother Mic and an African grey parrot, Bob.
Please sign up in advance by contacting The Sam L Cohen Children’s Library at 871-1700 ext. 707 or childrens@portland.lib.me.us
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