For our first get together we invited the buddies to come and play in our room. It gave them an opportunity to see what the little buddies are interested in and to help them remember what it was like to be a preschooler.
After introducing themselves to each other they found a place to play.
The second time we met was in the multi-purpose room. It has no toys and allowed the children to focus on each other.
Our task was to trace each other’s hands. This activity helped us notice some of our similarities and differences.
Today we made gingerbread cookies, as the beginning of our annual creation. This activity helped us learn a bit more about how to work together.
An important part of our time together is to share stories. Our big buddies read to the little buddies.
Our big buddies are enthusiastic in singing our songs and to listen to stories. They are great role models for the little buddies.
Our time together is special. It is creating bonds that are developing and becoming stronger on each visit. Children that begin shy are making connections and opening up. The older buddies are learning empathy, showing kindness and patience. The grown ups are learning more about pre-teens and how they can interact genuinely with their children.
