Buddy Bench

We discovered the Buddy Bench concept at a New Jersey school. Designed for pre-K through 2nd grade students, it’s a brightly painted bench clearly labeled “Buddy Bench,” ideally placed near the playground. Students who are feeling lonely or need a playmate sit on the bench, prompting other children to approach and offer friendship. Encourage students to invite anyone sitting on the bench to join them in play by simply asking, “Hi, do you want to play with me?” The Buddy Bench is a wonderful tool for fostering inclusion and helping children build friendships during recess.