1)Why do you think that the dolphins helped Nikki to speak? Do you have a theory about this?
I am not able to refer any theory about the dolphins that could help the boy to speak the first time. Maybe therapy was in a pleasant environment that he was never tried this style before. Swimming with the cute mammals like dolphins, it has created a deep emotional response and has released of deep feelings and emotions. I think youngster was more responsive and so very happy. Therefore the boy paid greater attention to the therapists' work and the result was more effective.
2)Do you really think the dolphins helped, or is this a case of media exaggeration?
I think the dolphins could help. I am not sure in statistics that the dolphins can help other boys who suffered the same Nikki’s case and who suffered in different causes.
3)Do you know any other stories about the therapeutic effect of animals?
I saw it on Facebook several months ago. The trained dog was capable of protecting self-harm for a woman with Down's syndrome. Being angry, she started to hit herself. The dog knew how to help the patient by inserting it in the middle of her. Making noise, lick, and hug, the woman reduced angry emotion and stopped self-harm. It was a happy ending.
4)How do you think Nikki's mother raised £10,500? How would you raise this amount of money?
I think she did part-time jobs and asked public donations through media. The story of her son was interested and have touched someone’s heart. If I need to raise this amount of money, I will share my project through “Crowdfunding” and advertise by social media e.g. Facebook, Twitter and so on.