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Whisper Time
Whisper Time is when a child/youth is given an opportunity to sit or lay “alone” next to your dog to have the opportunity to whisper anything they want into your dog’s ear without fear of any adult hearing.
This a good “always have in your back pocket” activity because there might always be one or two (or all!) kids who need to just be still and connect with your dog. How it is done is to bring a blanket and small pillow to always have as a designated “whisper time area”. You keep hold of the leash and sit about 6 feet from your dog and the child. You would of course sit in view of your dog to ensure the safety of your dog and the child.
You can offer each child a couple of minutes at the beginning of each session. This can also be calming to them so they are ready to relax and talk and participate in the group. Or actually this can be the entire group! While each child is spending whisper time with your dog, you can have a discussion/activity to do with the other kids in the group.
Sometimes there is one child/youth in particular who might need some extra time beyond a minute or two. In this case, you might explain to the other kids about compassion and feelings and explain that sometimes a child might need more time. You may leave it as an open question at the beginning of the group, “Who needs extra whisper time today?”. You will be surprised that the kids do not tend to abuse this to be with your dog. They may test it a couple of times but after that, they tend to respect the process well for themselves, others and your dog.
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