Welcoming four-legged friends into the classroom is a growing trend across the country. And research shows that therapy-dog programs provide significant benefits for students.Cognitive development learning theory according to the alliance of therapy dogs , “therapy dogs have been called ‘miracle workers’ because of their calming effect on students and teachers.” therapy dogs help with everything from trauma to reading interventions to a positive school climate.Cognitive development learning theory in addition, they provide particular benefits for autistic children .

There is a distinct difference between service dogs and therapy dogs. Service dogs help individuals with specific disabilities, such as visual impairment or seizure disorders.Cognitive development learning theory therapy dogs provide comfort and support. They are trained to use their social instincts and learned social skills to provide health, social-emotional, and cognitive benefits.Cognitive development learning theory health benefits

Dogs in the classroom provide both physical and emotional health benefits for students. According to one study published by the national institutes of health (NIH), having a dog present in the classroom promotes a positive mood and provides significant anti-stress effects on the body.Cognitive development learning theory in fact, the simple act of petting a dog has the effect of lowering blood pressure and heart rate. Pet therapy also lowers stress hormones, like cortisol, and increases oxytocin.Cognitive development learning theory in other words, just being in contact with a therapy dog calms kids down when they’re upset and helps keep their anxiety at bay. And reducing feelings of anxiety and depression enables them to focus on learning.Cognitive development learning theory

Perhaps the greatest benefit of therapy dogs in the classroom is the effect on students’ social-emotional development. Loving and lovable, dogs are friendly companions and good listeners who make no judgements.Cognitive development learning theory children bond easily with these gentle creatures, helping them feel more connected and confident. This leads to a reduction in negative behavior and aggression.Cognitive development learning theory

For instance, reading aloud can be an intimidating process for some kids. Many schools across the country have implemented programs that match students with trained canine reading partners.Cognitive development learning theory and it seems to be working. According to a study conducted by the university of california, davis, students who participated in one program increased their reading fluency between 12 and 30 percent.Cognitive development learning theory

In a nutshell, the NIH study summarizes, “the presence of a dog in an educational setting seems to support concentration, attention, motivation, and relaxation reflecting reduction of high stress levels which inhibit effective learning and performance.Cognitive development learning theory also [ … ] a dog creates a pleasant social atmosphere [ … ] an essential component for optimal executive functioning.” concerns

Dogs may frighten some children.Cognitive development learning theory handlers are very careful about introducing children to their dogs on a purely voluntary basis. That being said, one of the most powerful ways to reshape a fearful behavior response is by providing a positive peer behavioral model.Cognitive development learning theory in other words, watching other children enjoying and safely interacting with a dog may encourage a fearful child to give it a try.

The experts at therapyanimals.Org recommend using a safe, reliable agency that carefully selects and properly trains their animals.Cognitive development learning theory A registered therapy dog team will have their own insurance and will work without a cost to the school. Some of the organizations they recommend include pet partners , alliance of therapy dogs , and R.E.A.D.Cognitive development learning theory – reading education assistance dogs