Paws to Read II: Adorable Boogaloo

By now, it's likely that you've heard of our Paws to Read program -- in which we pair shy readers (between the ages of six and 12 years old) with therapy dogs who are trained to be good listeners.

The dogs help the kids relax so they can get used to reading to an audience.

You see, reading in public can be a little scary for some children; and nothing calms kids down like an adorable, unconditionally affectionate audience.

I wrote about the program before in June and there's no need for me to repeat everything I said there. But we had another Paws to Read session last week, and I suspect some of you might enjoy seeing photos of kids reading to dogs.

You can tell me if I'm wrong when we're finished.

Kaitlynn Bittner's a great reader but Caesar's an even better napper.

Alex Wolak reads "Bad Kitty" to Millie.

Wilson gives Tyler Rice a nuzzle as a thank-you for reading to him.

Jacquelyn Minich reads to Caesar, who is still struggling to keep his eyes open.

Hayley relaxes while Sophia Kiggins reads to her.

Sometimes reading time turns into snuggle time.

If your child can read independently but doesn't like to do it in front of other people, you might try signing them up for Paws to Read. (Especially if your son or daughter is also a dog lover.)

The next session is slated for August 21 at our Mentor-on-the-Lake Branch and registration for it begins on August 7.

Registration fills up quickly, so contact the children's department at Mentor Public Library soon if you think you child could benefit from Paws to Read.

There is often a waiting list for the program once registration begins.

For more information on Paws to Read and other children’s programs at Mentor Public Library call (440)-257-2512 or log on to www.mentorpl.org.

By the way, if you want, we have more Paws to Read photos on our Facebook page.