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Building Trust: Activities that help Therapy Dogs support school connections
Canine Comprehension therapy dogs play a pivotal role in creating nurturing environments within educational settings, fostering connections that go beyond simple companionship. Through trust-building exercises and interactive sessions, these furry companions forge deep emotional bonds with students, enriching their learning experiences and promoting overall well-being.
Our school program sessions incorporate interactive activities to deepen the bond between therapy dogs and students while promoting essential skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. One such activity is "Heel with the Humans," a mindful walking exercise that encourages students to synchronise with the therapy dog. This activity teaches students the importance of focus, teamwork, and mindfulness while strengthening their connection with the therapy dog.
Another activity that promotes peer team building through collaborative activities such as the "Classroom Agility Challenge." In this activity, students work together in small groups to create an obstacle course for the therapy dog using objects found in the classroom. Through effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, students guide the therapy dog through the obstacle course, building trust and camaraderie among peers.
Beyond promoting emotional connections and peer team building, Canine Comprehension aligns with curriculum objectives, enhancing students' learning experiences across various subject areas. For example, literacy skills can be reinforced through creating personalised reflections on activities based on interactions with the therapy dog. At the same time, social and emotional learning goals can be addressed through activities that promote empathy, communication, and self-regulation.
Through trust-building exercises, interactive sessions, and peer team-building activities, these furry companions enrich students' learning experiences, promote emotional well-being, and create a supportive community where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed.
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