Maggie, The Reading Dog
by Rhonda Carryer
August 29, 2008
Here is Maggie Jo, a
three-year-old miniature dachshund with plenty of love to share.
She is very gentle and enjoys being around people who are just as
gentle as she is. Since the start of school this year Maggie has
had many visitors in the Title 1 room. The students thoroughly take
delight in having her here at Westmoreland Elementary.
You may be wondering why I have chosen to
bring a dog into my classroom. When asked, I respond with the
following (or something close to it):
Animals can be a great educational tool in
the classroom…how?
♦ Students
learn to appreciate dogs, rather than fear them. This is true of
any other pet a teacher may have in their classroom.
♦ By
observing and caring for Maggie, students gain a sense of
responsibility and respect for life
♦ Research
says that there is less tension in the classroom when pets are
around.
♦ Having
Maggie in my room helps motivate students. They enjoy reading to
her and never have to worry about her laughing at their reading
mistakes.
♦ Maggie is a
great companion and students love to talk to her, especially when
they are feeling sad.
If I gave it more thought, I could probably
come up with even more reasons for Maggie’s value in the
classroom. If you should have any concerns, please contact me
at CarryerR@rockcreekschools.org
Dogs in the classroom:
www.creativeteachingsite.com/dogs/dogs.html
www.humanesocietyyouth.org/research_evaluation/PDF/KT_2004.pdf
www.petparliament.com/viewarticle.php?sid=15&aid=83
