Perhaps no skill is more important for young learners than the ability to read, but for some children it can be a struggle.
For five years one Maritime woman has been lending an ear to young readers with the help of her furry companion.
Vivien Lake and her dog, Zorro, volunteer with the HRM Library's "Paws To Read Program," which helps children improve their reading skills.
"It feels good because you have someone with you when you're reading," says nine-year-old Lauren Boyce. "You're not reading alone, you're reading with a dog."
At each session Vivien and Zorro help participants choose a book, then they all put their heads together and read.
The duo provides support, and most importantly, a non-judgemental environment for young readers.
"Vivien is an excellent coach," says Lauren's mom, Debbie Lewis-Boyce. "(She) knows how to encourage the child along to become a great reader."
The program is run entirely by volunteers from Therapeutic Paws of Canada.
Team leader Don LeBlanc says Vivien is a stand-out who goes above and beyond. He says Vivien and Zorro have had a lasting impact on the lives of dozens of children.
"Without that team in place at the Spry and Goodman libraries, the children at these two locations wouldn't have the benefit of being able to read to overcome some of the difficulties they have."
Vivien says it just makes sense to combine three of her favourite things.
"I love children, I love dogs and I love to read, so it is a win-win situation for me."
Congratulations to Vivien Lake and her helper Zorro, our Maritimers of the Week!
If you know someone deserving of our Maritimer of the Week award, we want to hear about it.
It doesn't matter how old they are, the nature of the "good deed" they've done, or what part of the region they live in – we want your ideas!
Please send your nomination to:
maritimer@ctv.ca
or
Maritimer of the Week
P.O. Box 1653
Halifax, NS
