We’re going to the dogs
by Erin
We just started an Animal Assisted Therapy program here at Easter Seals Central Illinois this summer, and already the program has been featured in a story on pjstar.com. Photos with the story show Ethan Simpson, age 5, a client of ours here at Easter Seals, petting Payton, a dog we use in the program. Another photo taken after the petting session shows Becky Bradley, Ethan’s primary physical therapist, looking on as handler Michelle Kosner takes Payton to the end of a hallway. The dog’s presence there encourages Ethan to propel himself down the hallway to get more loving from Payton! In fact, Payton was just the motivation Ethan needed to work harder than he ever had before!
Through the program, therapy dogs assist and offer encouragement for our kids in therapy. Use of the therapy dog is a strategy to work on goals including social skills, verbal skills, and movement in an enjoyable way.
Since bringing Payton to the Center, I’m hearing frequent stories of success from our therapists and parents — kids are climbing stairs to get to Payton, they’re speaking to give him commands, or practicing snaps and buckles as they dress Payton … skills they need in order to dress themselves independently. We’re excited about the progress we’re seeing as a result of our new addition! Kids. Therapy. Progress!