Students at two Wyndham primary schools will have some unusual new classmates when term three begins next month.
Saltwater P-9 College in Point Cook and Tarneit Rise Primary School in Tarneit are the first Wyndham schools to participate in the Story Dogs program, where four-legged friends act as reading assistants for students struggling with literacy.
“Children are encouraged to read to the dogs, thus removing pressure to perform,” explained Story Dogs co-ordinator for Geelong and Wyndham, Karen Knuckey.
“The dogs provide a calm, non judgemental audience and children can relax and have fun while reading.
These children are often below level and don’t particularly want to read – until they read to the dogs.”
The national non-profit program has been running since 2009 and operates in primary schools, mostly with students in year two.
“It’s been identified as the optimal time to bring in additional assistance,” said Ms Knuckey, who approached schools in Wyndham following Story Dogs’ success in neighbouring Geelong.
“We introduced it to Wyndham schools and they have responded positively and can see the benefit it will bring to their students.”
Those benefits not only include improved literacy and confidence in students, but also extend to those they’re reading too.
“It’s good for the volunteers by providing social inclusion in their community and the dogs love it, they have the best time.”
The dogs belong to volunteers and all but restricted breeds are accepted, though temperament and behaviour tests are required.
Ms Knuckey said she was hopeful of expanding the program beyond the two initial schools.
“Any school interested can participate in the program.
We are looking for volunteers and schools and sponsors.”
Deatils: www.storydogs.org.au/
Cade Lucas
