For K-12 students, back-to-school means continuing their education as well as building social and behavioral skills through interaction with their peers and teachers. Unfortunately, this school year in this midst of the COVID-19 pandemic looks very different this year. Most students have to get used to the ‘new normal’ of virtual education, which poses challenges both socially and academically.
We at D.O.G. wanted to bring to your attention some organizations that are putting dogs to work to help children nationwide who need additional support and compassion:
Gabriel’s Angels: https://www.gabrielsangels.org/
Founded twenty years ago, Gabriel’s Angels utilizes dog therapy to help at-risk children. The goal is to advance their social skills by encouraging education. Gabriel’s Angels work with Title I schools, as well as with children who are in homeless shelters or have been exposed to domestic violence. This Arizona-based non-profit has brought joy and a sense of safety back into the lives of thousands of children.
Therapy Dogs International (TDI): https://www.tdi-dog.org/
There are times when children are intimidated to read aloud in front of their classmates. Especially those who struggle with reading may find this stressful and can inhibit them from pursuing this essential lifelong skill. Therapy Dogs International (TDI) has a reading program called “Tail Waggin’ Tutors.” This program allows children to build their confidence as they read aloud to dogs brought into classrooms by volunteers. This program helps to not only lessen the fear of reading aloud but aids children who have had a previous fear of dogs. The kids get to know these loving canines in a friendly and easy-going environment. To learn more about this program or to donate, please visit the TDI website:
Merlin’s KIDS: https://www.merlinskids.org/
This organization helps both dogs and children. Merlin’s KIDS rescue dogs from shelters nationwide, then trains them to be paired with children who are autistic, have ADHD or other disabilities. They have locations in Georgia, Missouri, New Jersey, and North Carolina. They also partner with universities to bring this program to other areas of the country.
We encourage you to visit the websites of these worthy organizations, contribute, and learn more about their programs.
