Tail Waggin' Tutors Help Kids Read at Lutz Library

Sometimes, a four-legged tutor is just what a child needs to become a confident reader. And this Saturday, your young book lover can spend time with Tail Waggin' Tutors at the Lutz Branch Library.

The program is sponsored by Therapy Dogs International.

"Many of the children chosen for this program have difficulties reading and as a result have developed self-esteem issues. They are often self-conscious when reading aloud in front of other classmates," according to the TDI website.

"By sitting down next to a dog and reading to the dog, all threats of being judged are put aside. The child relaxes, pats the attentive dog, and focuses on the reading. Reading improves because the child is practicing the skill of reading, building self-esteem, and associating reading with something pleasant."

Tail Waggin' Tutors will be in the computer room at the Lutz Library at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 9. Children can take turns reading to an adorable therapy dog, according to the library's website.

Call 813-273-3652 for more information. The library is located at 101 Lutz Lake Fern Road.