Self-paced learning at home
Lasting around an hour in total, children can learn at their own pace, completing one chapter at a time, or the whole course in one go.
A gentle introduction to dogs
Animated versions of Maya (and friends) are always shown before real-life pictures and videos to support children with varying levels of fear and anxiety.
A guide for grown-ups
A guide for grown-ups is included, offering top tips to support children through the course.
About the course
'Building Bravery Around Dogs' comprises four chapters that cover key themes to support confidence building: Chapter 1: Fear Explore what fear is, what happens in our brains and bodies, and how the Fear Cycle can keep us feeling afraid. Chapter 2: Dogs Get to know more about dogs and what they're really like with help from Canine Coach, Maya! Chapter 3: Bravery Build a Bravery Toolkit that includes the Thought Catcher, 4 Paws Breathing, Safe Actions and Kind Actions. Chapter 4: Next Steps Create a personal Bravery Plan to put learning into practice.
Maria, The Dog Fear Coach
Hello, I’m Maria, The Dog Fear Coach! With over a decade of experience in dog welfare education, an MSc in Human Behaviour Change and specialist knowledge of child-dog safety, I bring together an understanding of people and dogs to help children feel braver, safer and more confident. My approach puts both children and dogs at the heart of learning, with a commitment to helping them feel safe and happy around each other.