Having a class travel buddy is a special part of my kindergarten class. Nellie is a small stuffed cow that I had when I was a child. Now, she lives in a red barn and loves to document all her adventures with my students!
Class Travel Buddy
Each week, one student gets to take Nellie home and spend special time with her. Some students sleep with her, introduce her to their other toys, take her on playdates, some have even taken her on vacation! After the week is up, the student writes and draws about the time they had together. When the student returns Nellie, they share what they did with her and answer some questions that the other kiddos might have about their adventure.
Benefits of a Class Travel Buddy
- Students absolutely LOVE getting to take a buddy home. They feel so special when it’s their turn and the smile on their face is priceless.
- This activity is VERY low maintenance. Once I set up her book and make a schedule of when each child takes Nellie home, I barely even think about her.
- Families get involved in an easy way. Parents can help their child write about the fun time they had with Nellie.
- You get a glimpse of each child’s family life. You can find out what’s important to them and what they like to do as an individual or as a family.
- A travel buddy creates amazing memories for each child. Each student I’ve had loves Nellie so much! I’ve had some students cry when they have to give her back. Others have gone out and purchased their own “Nellie” stuffed cow. This year, one of my students asked about Nellie on the first day of school. I had his brother a couple of years ago and he remembered her and how much fun they had with her. As simple as this activity is, it is such a memorable experience to all (Nellie included)!
Resources
Check out this resource to help you create your own classroom travel buddy book!
You might need….
(affiliate links)
Do you send a travel buddy home with each student? What kind of buddy is in your class!?
Teresa
September 16, 2017 at 2:52 pmMy Grade 1 and 2 class has Monty the Monarch. I agree with all your list of benefits.
Danielle
October 3, 2017 at 12:46 amThat’s so cute! I’m sure your kiddos love Monty! My kids have been so eager to know when they’ll get to take our Nellie home (: This year I’ve figured out a way for them to each take her home twice!
Barbara Galetka
October 3, 2017 at 12:04 amI just ran across this, what a coincidence, We also have a class pet ( stuff giraffe ) named skittles. my turtle died and I thought I would give this a try. Omg My students and parents love it ! I teach pre k and the feed back I get from parents is awesome, like you stated, the students are learning a ton, sharing is getting them to work on vocabulary. One parent reported back that this is teaching her child responsibility which she loved. I think this will be something my students remember a long time as well.
Danielle
October 3, 2017 at 12:49 amSkittles! That’s adorable!! It’s amazing that the parents love it as much as the kids. For such a simple thing, the benefits and rewards are incredible!