How to Make Reading Fun for Kids … and your Pets!
Activity 1: Meet some amazing kids helping their local animal shelter, one book at a time!
Discover the best dog books for kids and engage in fun activities for dog lovers! Our curated list includes heartwarming stories, educational non-fiction, and hilarious picture books. Explore our selection and find inspiration for crafts, games, and more to enjoy with your furry friend. Perfect for young readers who love dogs or are considering getting a pet.
“I was watching shy kids laugh and play with the animals and come out of their shell. And I was seeing dogs who were super anxious when I met them at the beginning of the day finally relax and lay down and just listen to the voice on the other side of the cage.”
There are animal shelters across the country like Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center that provide opportunities for kids to volunteer their time in a really unique way. Animals living in a shelter are deprived of a family-life and can often get stressed and feel lonely. So some shelters have started a reading program as a way to help socialize their animals while also offering something educational for kids to do by reading to them.
Kids love that they can practice their reading skills openly and honestly because animals aren’t judgemental. And animals feel less nervous or threatened when children read to them. The benefits of this type of program to both kids and animals is very evident according to the reporter in the above video. So be sure to check if there’s a similar program in your neighbourhood or city!
Activity 2: Have your child read to your dog (real or a stuffie)!
Reading to dogs (or any pet for that matter!) is a proven way of improving kids literacy especially in the early years.
There are studies indicating that pets (especially dogs!) enjoy being read to just as much as kids enjoy doing it. This is because dogs are by nature social beings who enjoy our company and spending time with their pack. This can include enjoying long walks together, curling up next to the family during movie night, or just listening from the comfort of their favorite corner.
Whether your child is a dog lover (or a little nervous around dogs) or you're thinking of adding a new dog to the family or simply want some new ideas on what to read, there are so many books about dogs to choose from! From timeless classics to new favorites, children's books with dogs explore many different themes, teaching about empathy, kindness, friendship and acceptance.
Activity 3: Fun Dog-Themed Activities to Check Out!!
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11 Fun Dog Crafts For Kids
From @Kol’s Notes are dog crafts for kids to keep them busy during a wet fall, long cold winter or the summer break!.
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Because of Winn-Dixie Activity Booklet
Check out this free Activity Booklet from Reading Quests for this award-wining classic by Kate DiCamillo!
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Pet Grooming Salon Pretend Play
From @Sunny Day Family is a great pretend play activity for the younger set that teaches responsibility & empathy!
Activity 4: Learn how to draw a dog!
A simple guide to draw the cutest puppy.
The next level up on how to sketch a dog!