Reading Buddies
What Is The Reading Buddies Program?
Reading Buddies is a Furry Friends program where children read one-on-one with a variety of pets in local schools and libraries. This program has been successful in increasing children’s confidence in their reading, their comprehension, and their love of books.
What Kinds Of Sites Are Reading Buddies Sites?
Reading Buddies programs may be held in schools, in libraries, in bookstores, in training centers, and other places. There are Reading Buddies programs in Santa Clara County, San Jose libraries, Santa Cruz county libraries and a couple of schools.
Is The Reading Buddies Program Limited To Just Dogs?
No! As a matter of fact, our goal is to have multi-species teams, unless specifically requested otherwise by the site. Cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, any other animal that can quietly sit or lie down while a child is reading to them is also welcome. Some reading buddies teams may be dogs only if the library or school requests that. Dogs who are reactive toward cats or other small animals may still be allowed to participate in the Reading Buddies program on one of these dogs only teams
What Makes A Pet A Good Reading Buddies Pet?
First, of course, the pet must have had a favorable evaluation in the Pet Etiquette class, and both the pet and the human participants must be up to date on dues and necessary vaccinations. Second, pets must be able to be calm in the presence of others of their own species and with pets of other species. Dogs that are intolerant of cats, for example, would not be good Reading Buddies.
How to Join A Reading Buddies Team
Prior to joining one of the Reading Buddies teams, you and your pet must be current Furry Friends members and have participated in visits for at least six months. A Reading Buddies evaluation class is required. In this evaluation class, children will actually sit with your pet and read to them, while the behaviorist evaluates the pet’s reactions. Reactions to a calm cat in the area will also be tested. During this evaluation, general information about the Reading Buddies program will also be presented.
How Long Is The Class?
Approximately 1½ hours in length. Please make sure to show up on time for the class. If you are late to class, you may be asked to retake the class the next time it is offered. Only one Furry Friend per handler is permitted for this class.
Reading Buddies Class Sign Up and Schedule
Below is the sign-up for the Reading Buddies classes offered to Furry Friends volunteers that have participated in at least 6 months of regular visits. There is a $50 per person fee for this class. Pay the fee via PayPal or send a check to Furry Friends. The address of the class will be sent upon paid registration for the class. Deadline for paid registration is one week prior to the class date. Class size will be limited to 15 pets. Class confirmations are mailed no sooner than two weeks prior to the class. If the class you select is full, we will schedule you for the next available class.
2024 Reading Buddies Class dates:
February 25, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.
April 28, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.
June 23, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.
August 25, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.
October 27, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.