Case Study: Building Confidence in Writing Through Animal Assisted Interventions
Ben’s journey highlights the transformative impact of Animal Assisted Intervention (AAI) in education. After struggling with writing and spelling challenges in fourth grade, Ben gained confidence, resilience, and engagement through therapy dog-supported literacy sessions at The Calais Method. This story demonstrates how intentional AAI can improve student confidence, literacy development, emotional regulation, and willingness to learn in supportive educational environments.
Not a Reward, Not a Mascot: Reframing Therapy Dogs as Instructional Partners in Education
We need to reframe therapy dogs not as rewards or novelties, but as respected educational partners. They must be a part of a carefully designed intervention that demands the same level of professionalism as any other educational strategy.
