Lily made a very special visit today. She woke up extra early. Had an early breakfast and a little time to run around in the back field with Annie and King. Then, she got brushed and dressed in her working gear: her Bright Spot Therapy Dogs blue vest, her official ID badge, and her special blue collar. All set to go, she excitedly sat expectantly at the door. An early start was necessary, we had a long trip to take. Lily was heading to the Preschool of the Arts in Ellington, Connecticut, a one-hour drive. Lily loves long drives!
Lily was so excited because she loves children. She gets to work with children every week in her volunteer job as a Bright Spot Reading Buddy. Every Tuesday, Lily goes to the Westhampton Elementary School where children in first and second grade read books to her.
Today, Lily met 25 preschoolers. They were all so excited that Lily was there to visit. They were so well-mannered. Lily felt right at home as we entered the door of the preschool. It was such a colorful and cheerful looking place. Lily wanted to check everything out. So, so many great things for the children all around the room. Play areas, an art area, and so much. But, Lily had work to do. She was there so the children could learn all about Therapy Dogs.
Lily settled in on the cozy wing chair in the front of the room and the children circled around her. They learned that Therapy Dogs are very friendly, well-trained dogs that make visits to people of all ages in places like nursing homes, hospitals, and schools. Some of the children told Lily about a grandparent of theirs that’s in a nursing home. Then the children learned about Lily’s special job as a Reading Buddy. The children liked the idea of reading a book to a dog that would listen and not interrupt, or make fun of them if they made a mistake. They thought that sounded like fun.
Lily was excited to share her own special book with the children called MEET LILY and her pals. They all liked listening to the story and seeing all the pictures of Lily and her pals Annie and King.
When it was time to go, Lily gave each of the boys and girls one of her LILY bookmarks to take home and use when they are reading their own books. These special materials are made possible by a grant from the Charter Oak Foundation in support of the Bright Spot Reading Buddy Program that fosters a love for reading.
Just before Lily left, one little girl came up to Lily and asked to read her a book. Lily loved this, and the little girl beamed as she turned the pages of the book. Lily had a great time today, and so did the children at the Preschool of the Arts.