Programs from Inner West libraries for children and young people with special needs

1. {
Reading to Dogs
Inner West Libraries
Caroline McLeod, Group Manager Library & History
Warning: Presentation includes pictures of very cute dogs

2. A partnership…

3. Milo & Finn,
Therapy Dogs
from Guide Dogs
NSW/ACT
Marrickville
Library Children’s
team
Ruth Kotevich,
Csilla Radvanyi,
Rachelle Down &
Peter Main
Delivered by…

4. I wish we could claim it as our
own…but
• Building on the Borrow a
Human program from
Fringe Festival 2015
• Saw the research from the
States – Story Dogs,
Reading Education
Assistance (R.E.A.D)
• Know that Lake Macquarie
have been doing if for
some time (2008)
• The Summary email to the
PLN from Blacktown
yesterday

5. Delivered as part of Sydney Fringe Festival
in September 2016
• Guide Dogs NSW/ACT so
responsive and great to partner with.
• It was their first time delivering such
a project
• Three sessions at Marrickville’s
neighbourhood libraries providing
intimate, comfortable settings for the
dogs and the readers
• 15 minute sessions over two hours
• Sessions sold out immediately –
promoted via facebook and our e-
What’s On
• Media coverage - Daily Telegraph,
2SER, SMH
• Provided a selection of dog themed
books for kids to choose from

6. Some of the benefits….
• Raising the profile of
Guide Dogs and Therapy
Dogs in general and their
role within the
community
• Providing a safe space for
reading - dogs don’t judge
• Increases confidence
• Increased focus
• Great for kids with a lot of
anxiety
• Therapy dogs are used a
lot for people with autism
and anxiety
• It’s fun
• Excellent feedback from
parents and kids

7. Inclusive sensory programs
Weaving & Lego workshops,
Conceived & delivered by Sharon McIlwee

8.  LEGO & Weaving: tactile, hands-on, create & break if need be, work at
their own pace
 Strong guidelines at the beginning which include the purpose of the
workshop, but everyone invited to create their own result
 Weaving based on the model of the Aboriginal weaving or yarn circle,
with educator sitting on the floor
 Set up with colourful rugs, cushions, baskets – for sensory seeking
children
 Weaving of different textures such as cotton, linen, silk and wool
 Flexible, happy, fun, easy and positive – lots of affirmative statements
 Provide a theme – allowing intellectual challenge and framework but
communicate that free play is acceptable
 Encourage parents to participate
 Free to chat or remain quiet – what ever takes their fancy
Why (we think) kids have
been responsive…..

9. For more info…
Caroline McLeod
Inner West Council
caroline.mcleod@innerwest.nsw.gov.au
9335 2180