We are proud to be bringing you a buddy program for implementation in your school.  Below is a general description of both the Same-School and Community-Based Buddy Programs.  Since each Buddy Program will be unique, please contact us with the type of Buddy Program you would like to set up so that we can help guide you through the process.

Same-School Buddies
Description
Buddies are paired with a student on the autism spectrum.  The Buddies provide 'main stream' role modeling while learning to build understanding and friendship with their peer.

Time Commitment and Activities
Buddies should spend one hour each week together during the school year.  All activities are expected to take place on the school campus.  Activities may include playing board games, taking a walk outside, eating lunch, arts and crafts, after-school sporting activities, or just spending time together.  Activities should be guided by the teacher or group adviser.

Community-Based Buddies
Description
Through working with a community organization, Buddies join students with autism during their after-school activities.  The Buddies provide 'main stream' role modeling while learning to build understanding and friendship with their peer.

Time Commitment and Activities
Buddies should engage in social situations at least twice a month during the school year.  All activities should be centered on the community organization's schedule of events.

Finding a Community Organization
Contact your local Autism Resource Center or search our Resource Guide at AutismSpeaks.org under Family Services.  These activities are typically soccer or baseball.

In Our Schools

I am a Special Ed Teacher that teaches in a 8:1:3 classroom on Long Island. My students range from 7 years to 10 years old. I have an open door policy with the general ed students in my building. We have students come in daily that would read, work on social skills (ie turn taking, modeling of appropriate behavior during games, and sharing materials)and share the common language of laughter with my ASD students. Each of these wonderful students understand the importance of wait time, simple language, and eye contact when interacting with my students. Their belief in my students have won the hearts of many adults. They have become the ambassadors for my students.

Lynda Kranidis
Special Education Teacher
Miller Ave Elementary
SWRSD