Appointments on December 5th and 13th at the main office of the Justus Liebig House
As the Darmstadt City Library announces, the reading dog Eléva will be returning to the main branch in the Justus Liebig House in December. On Friday, December 5th, starting at 3:30 p.m., and on Saturday, December 13th, starting at 11:00 a.m., elementary school children can read aloud to Eléva for ten minutes from their favorite book. The aim is to foster a love of reading and playfully strengthen reading skills.
Listener on four paws
Eléva is no ordinary dog – she's a trained therapy dog with a special task: helping children discover joy of reading Mira Eilenstein , who leads the reading sessions, the children can read stories aloud to the calm and patient dog. Eléva listens attentively, doesn't interrupt, and doesn't judge – a great advantage for children who are still unsure about learning to read.
Promoting reading with a scientific background
Studies show that the presence of a dog reduces stress and concentration and motivation . Cortisol levels decrease, while the happiness hormone oxytocin increases – ideal conditions for overcoming reading blocks and boosting self-confidence .
In the approximately ten-minute sessions, children can practice in a pleasant environment without feeling observed. The "Reading Dog" project has already proven successful in Darmstadt – numerous children, including those from the Morneweg School , have rediscovered the joy of reading thanks to Eléva and Mira Eilenstein.
There are still places available for both dates. Registration is via the city's website at:
vorlesehund
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/stip)
Featured image: Stock image
