How I Use Reading Buddies!

Reading Buddies are perfect for primary leveled classrooms! Now, how to use them…

I purchase all my reading buddies from KohlsCares. They are constantly changing the Kohls Cares, but you can get a stuffed animal for $5 and a matching book for $5! It’s an EXCELLENT deal for an EXCELLENT cause!

I keep all my reading buddies in a giant circular tub, however, another cute way to keep them is in a hanging storage like the one below!

During independent reading time, each student is called based on a rotating clip routine (similar to if you were to do classroom jobs). This way each student has an opportunity to pick first.

I have also done a picture chart (each reading buddy has a picture on the chart), and the students pick each morning by moving their name next to the buddy they would like. You have to do a system that works best for your class!

The students then take their buddy to their designated reading space and whisper read to them! I find that students are more likely to “real read” vs “fake read” during their independent reading time, when they have a buddy! I also find that it is a comforting time of day for many-including myself. Ha!

If you use reading buddies in your class. Please leave me comments on the system you use!