By Leah Davies, M.Ed.Buddy programs
consist of upper-grade students reading and/or completing
activities or projects with younger children. Older
students are paired with younger children from their
buddy class and the most effective programs have
at least two grade levels between students. The experience
provides children with stimulating opportunities
for learning and skill development. Buddy programs promote a favorable school atmosphere. In some cases, the students sit with their buddy during lunch or have time together on the playground. Some younger students make posters and cheer for their older buddies who are on sports teams. Treats are sometimes shared for holiday celebrations and students may exchange notes or cards for special occasions. If the students are to meet often, it is helpful if the two participating teachers have similar teaching styles. The schedules can be flexible since there are only two teachers involved.They typically take turns planning the sessions. If possible the two classes of children meet once or twice before buddies are paired. Playing "Getting Acquainted Games" (see Getting to Know Each Other Activities Parts 1, 2, and 3) can be beneficial.Then, if the teachers want input from their students in deciding matches, they ask the children to write down three names of students they would like as their buddy. The teachers match the children by considering the requests as well as the academic, emotional, and social development of their students. They may partner children who both have reading difficulties, a shy child with an outgoing one, or a calm child with an active one. Depending on the age of the students and make-up
of the classes, student genders may be mixed -- but
usually they are not. Also, if there are more children
in the older class than the younger one, a child
may have two buddies. Pairing older students who
are good friends is not recommended since they may
pay more attention to each other than to their buddy. Providing guidance in a computer lab is another way buddy programs function. Computer activities provide an opportunity for older students to show what they know. As a result, computer skills are fostered by both partners. Since the younger children look up to the older students, the older buddies try hard to be of assistance and their feelings of self-worth are enhanced. Teachers may allow time for the children to reflect
on how the program is working. If a student is not
relating well to his or her buddy, teachers need
to offer guidance, support, and possibly make changes.
The program can also include a mix of small group
work as well as partner projects. For example, if
the students decide to present a play at the end
of the year, they could write it, assign parts, practice
lines, paint scenery, make costumes, and perform
it for faculty, students and/or parents. Used by permission of the author, Leah Davies, and selected from the Kelly Bear website [www.kellybear.com], 12/04 Click Below for More. |