NAATA CIC

07/11/2025

With deep sadness, I share the news that our little chicken Tina Turner has passed.
Tina served as front-hen to the NAATA flock for many years. She inspired people of all ages with her resilience, her curios nature and her FABULOUS hair do.

Whilst I wait out the sadness, I also feel huge sense of gratitude to her and her sisters.

Tina and her sister Cilla Black have featured in songs and stories that have helped support children’s communication skills. Children engaged more readily and enjoy the learning more because of their fascination for, and connection with the hens.

Photographs and videos of the animals we have lost can be a tremendous support in the times after their passing. I’m now thankful that I also have these songs, stories and illustrations to help us remember our Tina. I’m wondering if this strategy might help other practitioners (and clients) to prepare for the inevitable parting of ways with their therapy animals.

Forgive me if this seems morose. I know many will prefer to scroll on. But perhaps someone will be inspired to write a ditty. Maybe you’ll doodle an illustration that captures your animals spirit and your affection for them. And perhaps this will help you when the time comes.

07/08/2025

🤣🤣🤣 Dogs can teach us a lot about the power of just listening.
Sharing a moment with our children and reducing the number of questions we ask can lead to a sense of safety and control. Children are more likely to practice their talking in this situation.
Perhaps that’s why this toddler is enjoying a good chat with the dog 😇

17/07/2025

Thank you Boldon Nursery School - Outdoor Nursery.
What a way to start our summer break. We are so thankful to be part of your world. 🥰

Heidi and Gunther join me in wishing the little leavers lots of fun and great success in the next part of their childhood journey.

As for the rest of you….

See you next term! 😃 🐾🐾

25/04/2025

Did you SPOT THE DOG?

For all those who are interested in the subject of school dogs and Therapy Dogs, this article aired on the BBC this week.

Just in case you missed it …

Dogs are becoming common in classrooms across the UK but there are calls for more training

16/04/2025

So proud to be a trustee for the Lifelong Ability North East - LANE and today we got to share in the fun.
Gunther felt right at home and made the most of the attention ☺️ 🐾

Storytelling with our Furry Friend Gunther! 📖🐾

Lesley from NAATA CIC, one of our amazing trustees and a Speech and Language Therapist, came along with her wonderful therapy dog Gunther to deliver a truly unique and engaging session. Using interactive buttons and books, Lesley and Gunther told stories in a creative and inclusive way that gave our clients a chance to try something new.

Gunther was full of energy and love, and there was plenty to go around! Our clients absolutely loved the experience, and Lesley did an incredible job making sure everyone felt included.

We’re so lucky to have someone like Lesley involved with LANE.

16/04/2025

Heidi was excited to see the smiling faces. There was a great holiday vibe at the library. Thank you for involving us in the fun North Tyneside Community Hubs and Libraries 🐣🤩

02/04/2025

17/02/2025

Safer, happier dogs make for safer, happier children and young people.
Would you like to know more about preparing for, or caring for school dogs?

National School Dog Alliance - NSDA

Hey! A chance to celebrate school dogs and spread the word about the special care and consideration they need and deserve. 🐾

17/12/2024

A new Swansea University-led initiative, the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, is giving schools free expert guidance on how to introduce dogs to create calmer and more positive learning environments that are safe for pupils and dogs.

05/12/2024

So here we are surrounded by little Christmas jumpers, building treat towers, playing fetch and singing songs. 😍

The children atLittle Acorns Childcaree were so kind and welcoming.

We talked about taking care of dogs and staying safe around around them and it was lovely to hear about some of the dogs at home.

Thank you for joining in the games everyone.
Merry Christmas! 🎄

07/08/2024

What a smashing time we had North Tyneside Libraries and Community Centres. Hats off to the lovely staff for taking care of us and for being up for doing something a little different.
The children were so gentle and kind and a lovely chicknick was had by all 🫖🌽