Buddies
Arcata Preschool's reading buddies visit our classroom every Friday. Mrs. Hurst's second grade class loves to read and explore books with their preschool friends.
Younger children especially enjoy the one-to-one attention they receive from their older buddy. They make comments such as, "He makes me feel special;he says nice things to me!" and"We do lots of fun things together. She`s my friend." Teachers report that participation in buddy programs enhances children`s cooperative learning behaviors such as taking turns, listening, sharing knowledge, praising another`s effort, helping one another, and completing a task. As the older students assume the role of the teacher, they are motivated to do their best. They also experience pride in their ability to be helpful. The younger children bond with the older buddy and friendships flourish as the year progresses.
