Cats find the rhythmic sound of a voice very comforting and soothing. The Book Buddies Program allows children who are able to read at any level to come into the shelter to read to the cats and improve their reading skills.
The program officially began in August 2013 and since then it has helped children improve their reading skills while also helping the shelter animals.
According to studies performed by researchers at Tufts University…
- Pets can be considered a source of support.
- Human-animal interaction can make the learning process more comfortable and enjoyable for children.
- Autistic children who were put in contact with an animal demonstrated increased use of language and had improved social interactions while with the animal.
- They showed sustained focus and maintained a higher state of awareness, as well as improved attitudes toward school.
- Animals can be a “non-evaluative presence” that can provide support and comfort to participants without judging them.
For further information on this program please viisit: