Story Dogs

A calm, positive reading experience designed to help children build confidence. 

Does your child feel nervous reading aloud, worry about getting words wrong, or need encouragement to enjoy reading? 

Story Dogs is a unique reading support program for primary school-aged children to practice reading in a calm, positive space. In each session, your child reads one-on-one with an accredited Story Dogs volunteer and their dog. There is no pressure to perform and no judgement if they make a mistake — just time, encouragement and a friendly dog happy to listen. 

By making reading feel safe and enjoyable, Story Dogs helps children practice at their own pace, grow in confidence and see themselves as readers. 

Newcastle Libraries is proud to partner with Story Dogs Australia to give children the opportunity to experience the joy and confidence that can grow when reading happens beside a dog. 

Who is this program for? 
This program may suit children in Years 2 and 3 who feel nervous reading aloud, are hesitant readers, need more practice in a calm setting or are losing confidence or enjoyment in reading.

How the Program Works:
• Children meet volunteer Bren and her dog Wilma at Newcastle City Library at the same time each week for four weeks.
• Each session includes 15–20 minutes of reading aloud.
• Children can bring a favourite book from home, home readers from school or choose something that suits their interests and reading ability from the library collection.
• Wilma remains on lead, with Bren present throughout the session.
• The Story Dogs Six Golden Rules guide safe, respectful interactions with the dog. 

Term 4 sessions

Story Dog Program 1: Tuesdays 20 October – 10 November 
Session times:
• 3:30-3:45pm
• 3:50-4:05pm
• 4:10-4:25pm
• 4:30-4:45pm
• 4:50-5:05pm
• 5:10-5:25pm

Story Dog Program 2: Tuesdays 17 November – 8 December
Session times:
• 3:30-3:45pm
• 3:50-4:05pm
• 4:10-4:25pm
• 4:30-4:45pm
• 4:50-5:05pm
• 5:10-5:25pm

Ages: 7-9 years old; Years 2-3

Cost: Free

Bookings essential – Children must attend four consecutive weeks, each booking is for the full four-week program.

Please note:
• Story Dogs are well groomed and have current vaccinations and parasite protection. Children with allergies that may be triggered by contact with a dog are recommended not to participate.  
• Story Dogs complements school reading support. It is not tutoring or a replacement for specialist literacy support. 

If you have any access or inclusion needs, you will be able to advise us when booking.