I have heard of a lot of different peer and mentor programs for APE that have to do with regular education students coming into APE. In my program I have kids that are in self contained rooms come to APE classes other than their own to be mentors.

In one class I have 6th grade students that are very high functioning who come as peer mentors for students who are very low functioning. These peer mentors assist students hand over hand and provide modeling of skills.

In another class 6-8 grade students with Autism mentor students in a K-2 APE class of students with Autism. These mentors also model skills and assist in any way they can. They also provide great examples to students of how to behave and express themselves.

The benefit is not only for the mentors but also for the students in multiple ways. They are able to see someone with disabilities like themselves perform skills and be physically active. Beyond that they are able to see kids like themselves be in a place of leadership that they are able to work towards to be a part of someday.

Teaching Suggestions/Tips:

The mentors must understand that this job is not a right but must be earned through hard work in the classroom and PE class.

Email this best practice!