PAWS for Reading – a Children’s Event

Reading is an important skill that, when practiced from an early age, helps children succeed in every level of school. PAWS for Reading is a non-profit literacy program that gives students the chance to work on their reading and confidence skills. Each child will get to read aloud to a trained therapy dog, cat, or bunny for 15 minutes and practice these skills. These furry listeners help children overcome a reluctance to read. The animals will listen to stories from 2 pm-4 pm on Saturday, September 16th. All ages are welcome.

Furry friends and readers will be spaced out in the History Center’s Auditorium to provide a supportive environment for our student readers. Participation is included with museum admission – feel free to bring your own book or read from one of the books provided by the History Center. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times and must treat the therapy animals and their handlers with respect.

Registration is required so that we can properly staff the event with furry friends.  The time slot you select (either 2:00pm-3:00pm or 3:00pm-4:00pm) is the earliest you may engage with the animals, and you may come to the Auditorium any time within that designated 1-hour slot.  Your admission to the museum is good all day, so plan to spend time in our museum and the Hands-on History Lab before or after your reading session.  Please be aware that you may not be able to read to the animal right away when you arrive, but we will try to match you up with a furry friend as quickly as possible.  Register Here!