Buddy Builders Teacher Guide
Buddy Builders
Foundation: Tier 1 Social-Emotional Learning
KINDERGARTEN
10 Minute Session
Why It Matters
Early social-emotional skills like empathy, cooperation, and relationship building foster a supportive classroom community and help children feel secure, valued, and ready to learn.
The Goal
Students will learn key friendly behaviors and practice making positive connections by pairing up with classmates in a guided activity.
Prep & Tools
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Print and cut out Buddy Builders Activity Cards.
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Have the Talking Ball ready (or soft toy).
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Review lesson steps and prompts.
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Total Prep: 2 minutes
Approach
Quick pairing activity followed by a structured sharing circle. Focus on movement and modeling.
Min 2
Step 1: Introduction
Gather students in a circle on the carpet. Set the "Building" scene.
"Today we’re going to learn how to be great buddies by sharing kindness and making friends."
Prompt: "What makes someone a good friend?"
Min 5
Step 2: Buddy Pair Activity
Hand out Activity Cards. Instruct students to find their matching partner (same shape/color).
Buddy Script:
"Hi, I’m ___. I like ___ about friends."
Teacher Prompt:
"Tell your buddy something you both like to do."
Min 3
Step 3: Sharing & Reflection
Reconvene on the carpet. Introduce the Talking Ball.
- Pass the ball; when a student holds it, they share one kind thing their partner did.
- Highlight positive behaviors you observed during the activity.
- Conclude with a high-five or special "Buddy Builder" cheer.
