Reading Buddy Sessions

A reading buddy session pairs an older, more confident reader with a younger child who is still developing fluency. The goal is not just to read together — it is to support, encourage, and help the younger reader grow. Being a reading buddy teaches you as much as it teaches your partner.

What Is a Reading Buddy?

• A reading buddy is an older reader who listens to a younger reader, offers support, and encourages confidence.
• Buddy sessions are usually short (10–15 minutes) and focused on one book or passage.
• The buddy does NOT read for the younger child — they support and guide.
• At the end of a session, both readers should feel that progress was made.

Strategies for Supporting Your Buddy

• Wait patiently when your buddy struggles with a word — give them time to try before helping.
• Use prompts instead of corrections: "Look at the first letter. What sound does it make?" or "Does that make sense in the sentence?"
• Praise effort, not just accuracy: "Good try — you looked at the whole word before guessing."
• If your buddy is stuck, offer the word and move on — keep the reading flowing.

How to Make a Session Run Smoothly

• Choose a quiet spot where neither of you will be distracted.
• Let your buddy choose the book if possible — ownership builds motivation.
• Start by previewing the cover and title together: "What do you think this story is about?"
• After reading, ask a simple comprehension question: "What happened first?" or "Who is your favorite character?"
• End with specific, genuine praise: "I noticed you re-read that sentence to check it — well done!"