In a heartwarming initiative at the Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center in California, kids are stepping up to read to animals, creating a delightful experience for everyone involved. This charming volunteer program allows children to engage with dogs and cats while providing them with soothing, gentle voices to listen to. It’s truly a win-win situation!
Living in a shelter can be quite stressful for animals, even for a short duration. When kids come in after school to read books or work on their homework, it helps the furry residents feel calmer and more relaxed. “If they get adopted, they won’t be aggressive towards their new families,” shared 12-year-old Mia, a dedicated volunteer at the shelter.
According to Jamie Ramirez, the executive director of the center, this program also familiarizes dogs with children, preparing them for their forever homes. “Animals in shelters miss out on a typical family life,” Ramirez explained. “Seeing children around helps them feel safe and comfortable.”
But the benefits are not just for the animals; the kids gain a lot too, often without even realizing it. With their furry reading companions, they can practice reading aloud in a relaxed environment, free from the pressures of a classroom. Research from the National Institutes of Health indicates that one in five children struggles with reading, and reading aloud is essential for developing foundational skills. It also enhances expressive reading abilities, as emphasized by the nonprofit Reading Rockets.
Many adults recall the anxiety of waiting their turn to read in front of classmates, but reading to animals provides a perfect solution to boost confidence. “When they read to the animals, there’s no judgment,” Ramirez noted. “The pets won’t say, ‘read that again; that wasn’t right.’”
The most wonderful part? The children are just thrilled to connect with the animals and help them, completely unaware that they are improving their reading skills in the process. “I just love spending time with the puppies,” said 8-year-old Lily, one of the young readers.
The program, which started last November, allows kids to visit bi-weekly to read to the animals. You can witness the joy both kids and animals experience in the touching video below.
If you’re interested in similar topics, don’t forget to check out our other blog post, where you can find more insights on home insemination.
In summary, this initiative at the Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center brings joy to both kids and shelter animals, enhancing reading skills and creating a nurturing environment. Through this charming program, children gain confidence while helping calm the furry residents until they find their forever homes.