1
Give one Buddy Builders Activity Card to each child. Ensure pairs are distributed so everyone has a match.
2
Instruct students to walk around and find the classmate with the matching card (same shape or color).
3
Once paired, guide students to practice their introduction:
“Hi, I’m [Name]. I like [Activity].”
Prompt them: “Tell your buddy something you both enjoy.”
4
After about 5 minutes of pairing and chatting, have partners return to the circle together.
5
Introduce the Talking Ball. Each child tosses the ball to someone else. The catcher reads (or teacher reads) the prompt facing up.
6
Continue until time runs out (approx. 3 mins). Celebrate kind examples and encourage daily use of these friendship skills.
Cut along the dotted lines. Give one card to each student.
Red Circle
Red Circle
Blue Square
Blue Square
Green Triangle
Green Triangle
Yellow Star
Yellow Star
Purple Heart
Purple Heart
Orange Diamond
Orange Diamond
Cut out these hexagonal patches and tape them onto a soft ball or beach ball. When a student catches the ball, they answer the prompt under their thumb.
Tell one thing your buddy did that was kind.
Say “thank you” to your buddy for being a partner.
Share one thing you both like to do.
Name something new you learned about your buddy.
Tell your buddy what makes them a good friend.
Give your buddy a high five!
Teacher Tip: If you don't have a ball, you can put these cards in a hat and have students pick one!
