In a quiet room filled with story books and soft paws, children are discovering that the path to literacy may just be paved with whiskers and purrs.
At Lort Smith’s Adoption Centre, the Tales for Tails program is proving that reading aloud to cats isn’t just cute – it works.
Partnering with Hume libraries, the program offers free 30-minute weekly sessions where kids aged 5-12 read to shelter cats and kittens.
The result?
Increased reading confidence, improved literacy.
And happier, more socialised animals.
“Reading to pets promotes emotional connection and comfort,” Adoption Centre manager Amanda Doolan said.
“This interaction fosters empathy, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the human-animal bond.”
Greenvale mum Felicity Little said the program helped transform her kids, Blake, 8, and Alice, 9, from shy readers into eager storytellers.
“Although nervous to begin with, their confidence in reading aloud was boosted,” Ms Little said.
“The kittens were a major drawcard.”
The Greenvale siblings joined the program for four weeks and quickly found their confidence.
“I liked reading to the cats because it improved my reading skills,” Alice said.
“I also liked how I got to meet different cats and that they found homes.”
Her brother Blake agreed.
“I liked reading to the cats. When I was reading, they would come close to me, and I liked to pat them.”
Acting library engagement coordinator Jacqui Auhl said the judgement-free environment was key.
“Feedback from parents indicated that reading to the cats has helped boost their child’s confidence.”
