Child's Best Friend

Children's blood pressure and heart rates can decrease as they read to these accepting, furry friends. Kellie hoped a well-trained dog could help all three children develop perspective-taking skills and increase their attention spans, as well as be a friendly, loving companion that could improve Pete's sense of self-worth. The fourth child, Lena, had a tracheostomy (surgery that created an opening in her neck), which delayed her speech. Because of this-and because of her quiet voice-she had trouble communicating with peers. [...]according to NAEYC Early Learning Program Standard 5, Health, a dog would not compromise our NAEYC Accreditation status.