SALUSBURYKobe - Our School Dog
When did we decide to get Kobe?
During the lockdown period, Miss Armstrong and the rest of the SLT team began to think about different ways to support children with any emotional difficulties they may have faced during this time period. This is when we decided to get a school dog.
You can hear Miss Armstrong talking about Kobe here, on BBC radio
Why have a School Dog?
Children can benefit educationally and emotionally, increase their understanding of responsibility and develop empathy and nurturing skills through contact with a dog. In addition to these benefits, children take great enjoyment from interaction with a dog. By having a dog in school we want to encourage those children specifically who are vulnerable, or those who are less confident with learning to have a friendly audience and to look forward to a challenge.
Having a dog in school can encourage reluctant children to come to school. The vast majority of dogs are gentle and loving, offering children opportunities to improve social development skills, unconditional acceptance and the chance to do something really well.
For some children, a dog will be a special friend, helping them to build self-esteem, relax and have fun. For others, time spent with a dog will be a reward for excellent effort with a difficult challenge.
