What is a Reading Buddy?
In Kilcommon NS a reading buddy is an older pupil who gives their time to read to and hear reading with a younger pupil. Usually a reading buddy will be paired up with one child who will read to them approximately 3 times a week The sessions should ideally take place on the same day and at the same time each week. A reading buddy takes an interest in the younger pupil and works with them for a minimum of a term so that they can develop a good relationship. |
The benefits for younger pupils
Older reading buddies are role models, their ultimate aim being to develop within the younger children a love of reading, increase the children’s confidence and self esteem and to leave the children with a real sense of achievement. Pupils often become more positive about their ability to read and may also improve their reading skills. |
The benefits for older pupils
A reading buddies program allows older students the opportunity to develop fluency as well as a sense of pride in their accomplishments. In addition, they often come to see the value of reading. Students can not only promote good practices but gain self-esteem. Repeatedly reading easier books has been shown to improve reading abilities in poor readers, and this program provides students with a reason to read easier books. |