Story Dogs: Supporting Literacy at St Joseph’s
At St Joseph’s, we are proud to welcome Story Dogs to our classrooms, helping children develop confidence and enjoyment in reading. Story Dogs are specially trained animals that work in a structured literacy program, providing a calm, friendly, and non-judgmental presence for students to read aloud.
Reading to a Story Dog can:
- Boost reading confidence – Children feel less pressure and are free to practise without fear of mistakes.
- Reduce anxiety – The presence of a calm, supportive dog makes reading a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
- Foster a love of books – Positive experiences with reading encourage a lifelong passion for learning.
Story Dogs visit classrooms and libraries for one-on-one reading sessions, giving every child the opportunity to engage at their own pace. Unlike therapy or assistance dogs, Story Dogs focus exclusively on literacy, helping students who may be reluctant or struggling readers by offering a safe, welcoming, and motivating environment.
Programs like Story Dogs are more important than ever, with many Australian children still not meeting minimum literacy standards. At St Joseph’s, we see the difference a Story Dog can make: transforming hesitation into excitement, building confidence, and nurturing a lifelong love of reading.