Peer helper programs have increasingly been implemented in elementary, middle, and high schools, and must be developmentally appropriate for each grade level. Peers can serve as tutors, mentors, mediators, and support systems, and schools utilize peer helper programs in order to assist other students in these areas. Effective peer helper programs share common characteristics.
The purpose of this paper is to examine characteristics of effective peer helper programs. These programs incorporate peer helper roles, training considerations, developmental considerations, characteristics of peer helpers, screening and selection procedures, program service and delivery, supervision and evaluation needs, and school/community needs
