Reading with cats

Children in grades 1-8 read to the cats as a way to improve their reading skills and gain confidence. The shelter animals can be a non-evaluative presence that can provide support and comfort to participants without judging them.

Students showed sustained focus and maintained a higher state of awareness, as well as improved attitudes toward school, according to researchers at Tufts University. (Reuters)

Photography by Mark Makela

Find more news related pictures in our photo galleries and follow us on Tumblr.