Recently, the staff and children from Christ Lutheran Preschool walked to East Lyme Middle School for a "Book Buddies" program with members of the Leaders' Club. Ms. Lisa Kriger, advisor for the Leaders' Club, had prepared the middle schoolers exceptionally well.

They had made books about the visit for each preschooler to take home (and one for us to have in the classroom as well), and very gently invited each preschooler to a space in the library/media center to read and visit. It was very touching to watch the older students engage the preschoolers in such comfortable ways. Their ability to instinctively tune in to each preschooler's needs and comfort level was inspiring. Gradually, the preschoolers began to share their own interests with their new friends, and were reluctant to end the visit when it was time.

We would like to extend our most heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Judy DeLeeuw, principal, and to Ms. Lisa Kriger, advisor to the Leaders' Club, for working with us to make this happen. The benefits for both groups of students are numerous, and we are deeply grateful to East Lyme Middle School for this opportunity.