Our building is a K-4 building. We use our 4th graders as helpers/asistants in our adaptive physical education classes. Here is an outlins as to how we put it al together.

The Program

A voluntary program where 4th graders are paired with a student in the Adapted Physical Education Class.

Purpose

The students get a better understanding of children with special needs and realize that we all learn differently. The students feel they gain a sensitivity and compassion for all people. Their buddies enjoy learning from the 4th graders who often find special ways to connect and reinforce skills.

Spreading the Word

• A.P.E. teacher visits each 4th grade classroom.
  • Discuss the meaning of volunteerism.
  • Describe Adapted Physical Education.
  • Talk about time commitment.
• Responsibilities of the 4th grader
  • Be a friend to their buddy.
  • Arrive on time.
  • Set up/put away the equipment needed.
• Check the buddy rotation chart.
  • Get name buttons for self, buddy and T.A.
  • Find out classroom teacher of buddy.
  • Walk their buddy to and from gym.
  • Listen to P.E. teacher's directions carefully.
  • Be creative in coaching their buddy.
  • Set a good behavior example.
  • Model proper skills.
  • Coach/help their buddy pick up/put away equipment.
  • Help their buddy learn to follow a routine.
  • Obtain a journal page/make entry promptly.

Procedure

Students interested in participating in the program write a paragraph about why they would like to volunteer. The A.P.E. teacher meets with the students before the first class to discuss expectations and to describe how she will be teaching the class. The 4th graders participate for approximately 6 classes, working with a different student each time. The teaching assistant is nearby to assist the 4th grader in understanding the special needs of their buddy. After each class, the 4th grader makes a journal entry of their reflections. The A.P.E. teacher responds to the entries and helps the 4th grader better understand the experience. The group will come together again after their rotation to debrief and share their insights. The 4th graders have all been very enthusiastic about their experience and the feedback I have received from their parents has been very positive.

 If you would like more information on this program, contact Pam.