Fairmont, MN: Christian school to have therapy dog to reduce stress and kids on the autism spectrum

Jan 27, 2018, Fairmont (MN) Sentinel: Students get new best friend http://www.fairmontsentinel.com/news/local-news/2018/01/27/students-get-new-best-friend/ Fairmont Christian School will have a regular visitor to help its young students with everything from verbal and reading skills, to offering someone to open up to. No, it won’t be a special educator or school psychologist, but a small hairy individual with four feet. Fairmont Christian School is located at Bethel Evangelical Free Church, 1125 S. State St. The school, along with Principal Kimberly Fast, is excited to announce the introduction of companion dog Birdie. … … “So we try to give them as many different tools, like how to calm themselves and take a deep breath and think.” In a letter to parents, Fast noted that Birdie will be able to help children with autism or special learning disabilities. “While dogs have calming effects and reduced stress levels in most students, children with disabilities can present a unique challenge,” the letter stated. “Because of the wide range of intensity, behaviors can be unpredictable. Currently, within our preschool and school family, we have several children who are on the autism spectrum. …