Reading with Animals can Boost Confidence!

For some children, reading aloud in front of others can feel stressful. In Finland, reading to animals offer a calmer audience. Children can read to trained dogs at libraries and other settings without worrying about being corrected when they make a mistake or read slowly.

How can reading with animals help children feel more confident?

A friendly animal can make reading feel less intimidating. Children may become more confident about trying unfamiliar words, while regular practice can help them read more smoothly. The calm presence of an animal may also help some children relax and concentrate.

The Finnish Kennel Club started its reading dog activities in 2017. The dogs are specially assessed and trained, and their job is simply to listen patiently while children read at their own pace. Some Finnish libraries also have other reading companions, including cats and rabbits. And in Raisio, children have even been able to read to cows as part of a farm-based reading activity.

FAQs

Do reading dogs correct children when they make mistakes?
No. Their role is to listen without judging or correcting the reader.

How can reading to a dog build confidence?
Children can practise difficult words without worrying about making mistakes in front of classmates or adults.

Are the dogs specially trained?
Yes. The Finnish Kennel Club has training and suitability requirements for reading dogs and their handlers.

Where do reading dogs work?
They work mainly in libraries, although some also visit schools and other settings.

Can children read to other animals?
Yes. Some Finnish libraries have reading cats and rabbits, while reading-to-cows activities have also been organised at farms.

Did you know? In 2025, nearly 16,000 people read aloud to Finnish Kennel Club reading dogs as part of its volunteer activities.

Also read: Why Reading Short Stories Every Day Helps Children Become Better Learners

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