PAWS program helps children read using therapy dogs

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Reading out loud can be scary for many kids, it's easier when they have a furry friend who won't judge them.

TV64 is partnering with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg library system to improve reading skills for local children, sometimes using therapy dogs.

Therapy dog Chloe is helping children work on their reading skills through a program called PAWS to read.

“The purpose of the program is for kids to read with a dog to boost their confidence” Charlotte-Mecklenburg librarian Sandra Nicholls said.

In all, 12 licensed therapy dogs visit the library.

Chloe's handler, retired teacher Ellen Vick, said the dogs take away any fears the children may have about reading aloud.

“Nobody's criticizing them all the time. Nobody stopping them and correcting them all the time,” Vick said.

After several sessions of reading to the dogs, many of the children make great strides.

“I really enjoy when I see the same kids coming back to read with Chloe repeatedly, and I can see the growth in the children,” Vick said.

“There are several that their attention span has increased, the reading levels increased,” Nicholls said.

The reward is Chloe's full attention and even a little kiss from their favorite dog for picking up a good book.

“The kids learn to love to read and enjoy it.  And what child doesn't want to read to a cute, fluffy dog?” Vick said.

You can help put books in the hands of children in the community as part of TV64’s “books for kids” drive.

Donate your new and gently used books for children and teens at any Charlotte-Mecklenburg library location or stop by the special collection day Wednesday at the WSOC-TV station on North Tryon Street

Cox Media Group