Community Corner
Dogs Serve as Gentle Listeners for Kids at Mineola Library
Program allow children to focus on reading skills in a non-judgemental environment.
Children had the unique opportunity to share a story with someone whose talent is listening. On Monday three dogs wagged their way to the community room of the for afternoon story time. The catch – a librarian wasn’t the one doing the reading; instead kids took turns reading stories to their new furry friends.
Children’s librarian Meredith Minkoff said having the dogs come to visit is a way for children to practice reading in an environment that is comfortable for them.
“Kids that struggle to read will sometimes have an easier time reading to someone or something that doesn’t judge them,” Minkoff explained. “This is a fun way for them to build confidence.”