Good Article

http://vnweb.hwwilsonweb.com.proxy.libraries.uc.edu/hww/results/external_link_maincontentframe.jhtml?_DARGS=/hww/results/results_common.jhtml.42

Here is an awesome article I found while searching through some journals on the UC library site. There was a segment that discussed how a little girl with dyslexia benefited from working with Willie, a Labrador that helped boost her confidence by being a non-judgmental audience member for when she read aloud. I think this is a great idea. This is the sort of things I wanted to come across in my research, because I really wanted to see animal-assisted therapy being used within a school setting. However, I know most classrooms would not be able to have a dog full time within the classroom...But a volunteer can maybe come once a week, or even once a day during reading time or during some other subject that it would be beneficial for certain students.

Again, the article lists the benefits of AAT, but adds to my earlier posts with decreasing loneliness and anxiety. There was another story about a boy named Bruce that grew up in an abusive household, and how AAT helped him become more nurturing, empathetic, and respectful-as well as gain self worth and acceptance. Anyway, I thought these were some great positive stories that involved AAT. I just honestly feel as if educators should look more into including animals within the classroom as a strategy, instead of viewing a class pet or pet visitor as being a hassle. If they plan for a classroom pet or pet visitor accordingly, there shouldn't be too many issues with fitting it into the curriculum :)