“Read to Rover” begins March 29!
The Carl W. Nelson Animal Shelter and Hatch Public Library are once again partnering to bring “Read to Rover”
to Mauston-area youth. Children read to a dog for fifteen minutes. Appointments are available from
4:30 – 6pm the last Wednesday of every month.
What is “Read to Rover?”
The program is simple in concept: one great therapy pet, one skilled handler, and one child, sitting together on
a blanket reading a book. But the results of this simple act are powerful. For a child who is self-conscious
about reading out loud, Read to Rover can help to eliminate the fear of being laughed at or criticized by peers
or family. Take away that fear, and reading out loud suddenly is fun. Books and new words become something
exciting to share when you read to a pet. Simply put, “Read to Rover” builds a love of reading, and that is a
skill that will last a lifetime.
What are some of the benefits of “Read to Rover?”
The benefits from “Read to Rover” include improvement in both reading skills and comprehension, along with
improved communication. Some bonus benefits are higher self-esteem and confidence, and improved
relationships with teachers, peers and family. In addition, children with a fear of animals, get the chance to
spend quality time with a gentle pet.
With “Read to Rover,” there are no judgments, just a happy animal enjoying a child's voice.
Excerpted from the Coulee Region Humane Society
How do I register my child for “Read to Rover?”
Please stop by the Hatch Public Library to sign a permission slip and choose an appointment time for your
child. Plan to arrive five minutes early on the day of your appointment. Your child may bring books from
home, or choose library books to read.
We look forward to seeing you at “Read to Rover!”
Hatch Public Library 111 West State Street Mauston, WI 53948 (608) 847-4454
hatchpubliclibrary.org
[email protected]