Australian literacy program using dogs to help children read with confidence

Consensus Summary

The Story Dogs program uses 389 dogs across Australia to boost primary school children’s reading confidence by providing one-on-one, low-pressure sessions. Founded in 2009 by Janine Sigley and Leah Sheldon, the initiative targets students who struggle with anxiety, learning difficulties, or limited home reading opportunities. Tashi, a miniature poodle owned by Sue Bognar, is a prominent example, working at Bondi Public School in Sydney where she helps children like Harlow practice reading aloud without fear of judgment. The program leverages dogs’ non-judgmental nature to create a supportive environment, encouraging children to read at their own pace and fostering a bond that motivates them to practice at home. Recent Naplan results highlighting literacy gaps underscore the program’s relevance, as it aims to address early reading challenges before they become entrenched. Bognar, a retired educator with decades of experience, emphasizes how the dogs turn reading into a pleasurable activity, reducing the stress often associated with public reading. While the program’s growth—now spanning all states except the Northern Territory—demonstrates its widespread impact, details like Tashi’s exact age remain slightly inconsistent between descriptions.