Although the internet turns up adorable images on a daily basis, these pictures of young children reading earnestly to homeless cats might be our favourite yet.
‘Book Buddies’, organised by the Animal Rescue League, is a program that allows children to read to cats who are waiting to be adopted.
Children aged six to 13, who are able to read at any level, are invited into the shelter to read to the cats at Berks County Rescue League.
The website for the Pennsylvania rescue center says that ‘Book Buddies’ is beneficial for both the animals and the children: ‘The program will help children improve their reading skills while also helping the shelter animals. Cats find the rhythmic sound of a voice very comforting and soothing.’
Parents of children who have participated in the programme have high praise for the scheme.
‘I want to thank you for giving my son the opportunity to participate in a programme such as this one,’ said one mother.
‘I believe it truly helps him to not only read, but to help the animals who do not have warm loving homes, and that we must help speak up for the critters who do not have a voice.’
