Building Our Community

For well over 20 years, we have had a long standing tradition called “Kinder Buddies” in our elementary school. Every Fifth Grader looks forward to becoming a “big brother” or “big sister.” Each Kindergartner is paired with a 5th grader. A handful of Kindergartners have two buddies. Every Tuesday, the children spend 15 minutes reading to each other and once a month, the buddies get together for a writing or craft activity. For the Kindergarten students, this is a relationship that they will remember for years to come. It helps them gain self confidence, feel secure at school, and just have fun. The Fifth Graders develop many valuable skills -- respect for younger students, patience when working with them, how to relate to younger children, and how to speak in a manner that helps their buddies feel respected and safe. With our buddies, we will have an opportunity to build a strong relationship with each other.

Our first meet and greet was on Monday, August 19. With three books in hand, the Kinders seemed excited to meet their new friend(s). Once they met, they sat down and listened to their buddy read stories to them. They were all enjoying their time with their buddy. When it was time to say thank you and goodbye, they couldn’t believe how fast time flew by. The Kinders had so much to share.

Creating a Handshake with My Buddy

• Did you know my buddy liked dinosaurs when he was in kindergarten?
• My buddy told me she was in ‘Elepaio 6.
• My buddy is a great reader.
• Do we get to see our buddies tomorrow?

As you can see, they are already building a relationship with their new friends. They can’t wait for their next fifth grade buddy time.