A Michagan-based health insurance provider called Priority Health launched “Priority Pups” to bring service dogs into elementary schools. Having dogs in the classroom has had a tangible impact on students’ mental health and academic performance. Students read books out loud to the dogs which has increased literacy scores, and they serve as a calming presence when students feel overwhelmed. 1 in 5 kids struggle with mental health, which can lead to difficulties focusing in school and connecting with their peers. Children with neurological disabilities like autism have greatly benefited from sitting with the service dogs during class to help ease their emotions. The Priority Pups bring students together, relieve stress, and give them a positive association with school and learning, and Priority Health is looking to expand the program into more schools soon.
Image via Priority Pups
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