Middle School Reading Buddies: Benefits and How to Start

Does your school have a reading buddies program? I know some teachers avoid the concept due to scheduling hurdles, but the benefits for both groups of students are substantial. Here are some reasons to implement reading buddies into your middle school ELA schedule.

Benefit #1: Fluency Practice for BIG KIDS

Read-alouds and listening to same-age peers read aren't always favorites for my students, especially if they are struggling or paired with a struggling reader.  However, many of my students still need fluency practice to improve their reading skills.  Reading to a younger student is far less intimidating. Reading buddies provide a chance to read aloud without feeling stressed about their own abilities as successful readers.

While the goal is to read effectively and fluently, you don't get better without practice. It is not always easy to incorporate read-aloud opportunities regularly. Making time for a reading buddies program gives your middle school students the perfect audience to practice reading without judgment.

Benefit #2: Weekly Motivation

Your students will look forward to this scheduled time each week. Some will even go out of their way to bring in special reading selections for their young friend. Knowing we have a scheduled day and time gives them something to look forward to each week.

You will be surprised at how excited your big kids get in anticipation of their buddy days. I've taught at schools where this program has run for decades, and the older kids remember their experiences from kindergarten and first grade. Knowing they are now the “big” buddy is a welcome responsibility. Scheduling conflicts will come up in certain weeks, and you can see the disappointment on their faces.

Benefit #3: School Connectivity

We know students come to school each day because they HAVE to, but I want my students to come to school because they love what is happening in our classroom and feel connected to their learning. In addition to the other exciting things happening each day, reading buddy time gives my students even more reason to LOVE their time at school and a fulfilling purpose as student leaders. Spending time each week with another person who is looking forward to it makes both groups of students feel much more connected to their school experience.

Reason #4: Having Accountability to Others

Typically, we meet our reading buddies each week until the end of the school year. Knowing this event will take place and having this time together, my middle schoolers and their kindergarten buddies will form an unforgettable bond. From here on out, they will spot each other in the building, give friendly waves and sweet hugs, and they will look forward to their time together each week.

Benefit #5: Teacher Perspective

I love seeing my students take on the role of the teacher when they work with their preschool reading buddies. Watching them switch roles from hardworking student to engaging “teacher” is truly a thrill. If you need a fresh perspective on your students, giving them the opportunity to work with little people will give you a newfound appreciation for the thoughtful, genuine individuals they are. Any frustrations you have ever had will be redeemed through their sweet actions with their buddies.

How to Set Up a Reading Buddies Program

I mentioned scheduling as the biggest hurdle, and I will not pretend it is not. But once the schedule is set, the program runs itself. Here is how I got mine off the ground.

Find your partner class first.
Ask around before you plan anything else. A kindergarten or 1st grade teacher is often the easiest match for a middle school partner. A 3-year age gap is a good target and gives your classroom a clear “big buddy” role.

Pick one day and stick to it.
Fifteen minutes, same day, same time, every week. I know that sounds too simple to work, but predictability is what makes this program something kids actually look forward to.

Pair students with purpose.
I do this the first week, before buddies ever meet. Think about which students need a leadership role, which ones will be patient. Look for interest matches such as sports, hobbies, and even pets. Create a few match categories and review them with the other teacher.

Set expectations with both classes.
Before the first meeting, walk both groups through what buddy time looks like. What book to bring, how to sit, how to handle a buddy having an off day.

I know instructional time is precious and already bursting at the seams, but I can assure you that 15 minutes a week taken from your jam-packed schedule will be an incredible, memorable use of your students' time.