Buddy Benches for Schools

A buddy bench is a designated seat on a school playground where a child can sit to signal that they want someone to play with. When other children see a classmate on the buddy bench, they are encouraged to invite them to join an activity. The concept originated as a social-emotional learning tool and has been adopted by thousands of schools across the country. It is a simple, tangible way to promote inclusion, reduce playground isolation, and build empathy among students.

Buddy benches sit on playgrounds, the harshest environment for outdoor furniture. Daily use by children, exposure to every weather condition, and proximity to playground equipment that generates impact and vibration demand a bench built for the application. Plastisol-coated steel handles all of it. There is no exposed metal to burn skin in summer or freeze in winter. The coating does not chip, crack, or peel under daily use. The bench never needs painting, staining, or maintenance.

Every Premier Polysteel Buddy Bench meets the same safety standards as our kids’ picnic tables. The plastisol coating covers every surface, leaving no bare metal anywhere. The plastisol surface stays cooler in direct sun than bare or powder-coated metal. Edges are rounded. These are benches designed for spaces where children are the primary users.

Available in 6′ and 8′ lengths. 12 standard plastisol colors. Schools often choose colors that match their mascot or school brand. A customizable plaque option is available on all sizes and mounting configurations. Free-standing, surface mount and in-ground mounting options.