Buddy / Friendship Bench
The buddy bench also known as the friendship bench was originally created in 2012 by a fifth grader. The bench is a special place in a school playground where a child can go when they want someone to talk to, when a child feels the need for a friend to talk to, he or she can show this by using the buddy bench. Other children and staff will recognize this is a sign that some help, support or confront is needed and will come to talk with the child. It promotes positive social skills at school, especially during recess. The buddy bench ultimately is a sign of an inclusive school climate as well as an open act against bullying.