How adorable pooches are helping NYC students boost their confidence

A new breed of educator is helping teach Big Apple kids that anything is paws-sible.The Department of Education’s “Comfort Dog Program” has rolled out in about 50 schools across the five boroughs — and young students are reaping the benefits of boosted confidence and better grades.The adorable initiative, which places trained therapy pooches in classrooms, started as a pilot program in just seven schools in 2016 and is now helping hundreds of students tackle life in the classroom — and beyond.The program is helmed by Kirsten Kinsella, a dog trainer and DOE educator since 2007, who explained that it offers targeted, tailored lesson plans spread out over approximately six weeks to assist struggling kids engage with their studies and emotions.But to truly see the “magic,” Kinsella invited The Post into a classroom at PS 70 in the Bronx to witness it in action.A group of five Bronx students quietly shuffled into their classroom and took their seats — the toll of the school day written on their faces.But when Kinsella brought in “Chip,” a Shih Tzu-cross-poodle, sunken faces quickly turned to smiles.“Who is feeling nervous? Chip is feeling nervous, too.Watch how he shakes it off, let’s shake it off with him,” Kinsella said.The results were instantaneous, as students mimicked Chip and started shaking before erupting into laughter.Kinsella said moving the attention away from the students and onto Chip is the first step.“It really allows the child to open up, be motivated and takes away the fear and anxiety that they have working with groups of kids or with an adult,” she explained.Next, a guided trick.“Chip, roll over, roll over,” 10-year-old Augustina said as she carefully helped the pooch.Struggling at first, Chip soon became a natural.

“If Chip can make mistakes and does better next time, I know I can, too,” Augustina, now beaming with confidence, told the group.Kinsella said working with Chip allows students to connect to their emo...