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Read To Rosie: Parrot To Encourage Literacy
June 27, 2011
Rosie the Parrot is coming to the Century Branch Library next month, and he just loves to hear children read to him.
Modeled after the “read to dogs” programs used successfully by some libraries, children will have an opportunity to read a story to Rosie on July 14. He is an African Grey Parrot that belongs to Pat Rigel, Century’s librarian.
“They have found that when kids read to animals they do not have unnecessary anxiety about their reading skills and don’t worry about stumbling over words,” Rigel said “I hope that learning that African Grey’s are as intelligent as a 2-year old child and can have an enormous vocabulary, they will want to try to teach him new words or phrases.”
Safety will be priority for all involved — parents will need to sit with children six and under and a staff member will always be in the room. Rosie will be in an acrylic travel cage for his safety too.
Reservations are being accepted now for 15-minute sessions to be held on July 14. To reserve a time slot, or for more information, call the Century Branch Library at (850) 256-6217.
Comments
3 Responses to “Read To Rosie: Parrot To Encourage Literacy”
I have an african grey and he is such a wonderful, social bird. I stopped in and asked Pat if he could also participate in the program. I think Gumbo (my bird) would LOVE to have children read to him. He loves people and if he can help kids feel comfortable reading, I think it would just be a win-win situuation. I think the idea of the program is such a great idea.
Maggie is correct. My mom has an African Grey. They are expensive, but fascinating pets! Having one, and truly caring for it, is like having another child in the home.
African greys are wonderful birds. I had 2 of them while living in Africa many years ago. They learn to mimic very quickly and never forget a sound. However, they are very messy and require lots of attention.