___________________ Animal Assisted Intervention
Since September 2020, Riverside Bridge School has integrated a dog as part of their ongoing school life. and we believe that the benefits of having dogs in a school setting outweigh the possible risk as pupils will benefit educationally and emotionally, increase their understanding of responsibility and develop empathy and nurturing skills through contact with a dog as well as take great enjoyment from interaction with a dog.
Is there a risk in bringing a dog into a school environment?
Yes, there is, though there are a variety of accidents, which can happen within the school environment which far exceed the number of injuries or incidents caused by a dog. Therefore, it is just another risk that needs to be managed and we have carried out thorough risk assessments.
Our dog – Max
Academic research has shown that dogs working and helping in the school environment can achieve the following:
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improve academic achievement
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increase literacy skills
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calming behaviours
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increase social skills and self-esteem
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increase confidence
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teach responsibility and respect to all life
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help prevent truancy
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motivate children who are often less attentive
