Reading with Rover
Dogs helping kids discover the joy of reading
Do you have a reluctant reader? Are they in 1st-5th grade? Your child could benefit from the Reading with Rover program!
Reading with Rover pairs certified therapy dogs with children who are uncomfortable reading aloud. Ideal for struggling readers, ESL learners, shy children, or those with low self-esteem. In this private setting, the dog provide his attention while the child reads aloud without fear of criticism or interruption.
Children meet weekly at a local Henderson Libraries location and spend 45 minutes reading to an adoring canine reading buddy. Reading progress is tracked and all children are offered additional sessions, depending on their need and space availability. The dog's owner (and child's reading coach) assist the child as needed. In the end, everyone benefits. The dog loves the attention and the child improves important reading skills while gaining self-confidence. Reading becomes fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Reading with Rover?
This program is designed to spark an interest, and foster a love for reading, while building self-esteem, and developing reading skills. The program encourages reluctant readers to practice reading skills in a fun, non-judgmental environment while developing personal growth.
Where is it offered?
The program is offered exclusively at Henderson Libraries for struggling and unsure readers in grades 1-5.
Our unique private reading practice pairs trained reading coaches, their registered therapy dog, and a struggling reader. Reading teams meet weekly at a Henderson Libraries branch.
What makes these dogs so special?
Our dogs are the magic to this program! Each therapy dog has passed stringent tests to be certified, and all belong to a national therapy association. Since dogs are nonjudgmental, and our therapy dogs also have loving temperaments, they assist in making the program both relaxed and enjoyable for the child.
Interested in having your dog participate? Fill out our Therapy Dog application.
What do the kids learn?
Each Reading with Rover program is designed to assist the individual learner. Decoding, comprehension, and reading fluency are just some of the skills we build. Emphasis is placed on building self-esteem and vocabulary development in all our young readers.
How does my child join the program?
Children can be nominated for the Reading with Rover program by a parent, teacher, or caregiver. Fill out the Reading with Rover Application Form, or call for more info at (702) 707-BOOK (2665).
Questions? Stop by the Customer Service desk at any of our locations or call (702) 707-BOOK (2665).
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