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.
Notable News Stories
Baseball Gives Special-Needs Kids 'Something to Brag About' The crowd cheered as Morgan Lawless faced her first pitch of the fall baseball season. Morgan Lawless, who has cerebral palsy, plays baseball at Bay Creek Park near Atlanta, Georgia. The 14-year-old middle-school student clenched her teeth as she swung the bat into a single. Read More.
Buddy Soccer Helps Kids with Disabilities in Aiken (Aiken, S.C.)
It's a program that was started in early September by two people that don't even have kids. Kids with disabilities, ages 4-15, buddy up with a volunteer and play soccer. It's the first of its kind in Aiken, and based on what the parents are saying, one that's long over-due. Read more.
