Peer Buddy System

This week we implemented a peer buddy system in our second grade inclusion classroom.   We randomly (and I use that term loosely) selected students to become buddies.  We explained that we were assigning buddies for a few reasons: 1) we have students that are new to our school, and 2) we enter as strangers and leave as friends.  We truly implemented if for several of our own reasons: 1) Support and develop social skills for students with special needs, 2) Decrease bullying (Did you know bullying is at its highest in second grade?), and 3) Increase positive social-emotional health.

For the first lesson we explained our reasons for implementing the buddy system.  We then talked about how to be a good friend to someone (sharing, using a friendly voice, sharing, etc).  We then paired everyone up and gave them a questionnaire to complete with their partner.  We explained that every 2 weeks we would switch buddies, and every 2 weeks we would interview our buddies.  We then compiled a list of "How to be a buddy."

I am eager to see how the buddy system progresses throughout the school year and I anticipate positive changes in peer relationships and respect within the class.

The peer buddy interview sheet can be found on my TpT site.

Top 5: Quick and Easy Interventions in the Gen. Ed. Class

Hello All,

This year brings new and exciting adventures, this time in second grade, and once again preschool autism (my favorite!!!).  Half of my day is spent in the general education classroom, it is definitely not what I am used to, but it is pretty exciting!

So here are a few quick and simple interventions for the general education classroom:

1) Classroom Timers
2) Class DoJo
3) Thera-Bands wrapped around the bottom of chairs
4) Brain Breaks! 
5) Post-It notes!!!!

Have a nice and relaxing weekend everyone!  I'm sure you all deserve it!