Meet Ted, the new Reading Dog who has taken up residence at Downham Market Library! Library Manager Fran Valentine explains how Reading Dogs can help children grow their reading skills and build confidence
Good boy Ted loves being read to so much, he has taken up residence at Downham Market Library! Ted joined the library team earlier this month and will be coming into Downham Market Library every Wednesday escorted to the library by his personal assistant Jackie, to listen to children read stories. The sessions are free, drop in, and suitable for children 5+ – children must be accompanied by an adult and there may be a short wait to read to Ted.
Fran Valentine, Library Manager at Downham Market & Swaffham Libraries, says: “Reading Dogs help children grow their reading skills and build confidence – one wag at a time. Furry friends like Ted are wonderfully non‑judgmental listeners, so reading to them feels fun and pressure‑free. With a calm dog by their side, children can discover the joy of reading at their own pace, relax and read aloud without worrying about getting everything perfect. It’s all about smiles, stories, and sharing a book with a four‑legged friend!”
Children aged 5+ can read a story to Reading Dog Ted on Wednesdays from 4pm onwards at Downham Market Library (The Priory Centre, Priory Road, PE38 9JS). Drop-in event (there may be a short wait to read to Ted). All children must be accompanied by an adult. Visit Downham Market Library – Norfolk County Council.
Featured images of Ted – supplied
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