More joy in reading
A regular young volunteer makes reading more fun and less stressful, outside the pressure of the classroom.
For parents and carers
A reading buddy for your child
Careibu matches primary school pupils (aged 6–12) with committed young people nearby. Practise reading together, safely, with guidance and in a public setting.
Benefits
What a reading buddy can mean for your child
Many children struggle with reading. A regular young person beside them makes practising more fun and personal than in a busy classroom.
One-to-one attention
Your child gets dedicated time to practise reading, vocabulary and reading comprehension.
Confidence
Practising regularly with someone patient helps children who struggle to build confidence again.
A steady routine
One fixed moment each week adds structure, good for the child and for you as a parent or carer.
Reading skills in the Netherlands
Reading is falling behind and children feel it
The figures show why extra support at home and school is becoming ever more important.
1 in 2
children leave primary school without sufficient reading skills. Without that foundation, the future is harder.
−14 points
is how much the average reading score of Dutch 15-year-olds fell between 2018 and 2022 (PISA/OECD).
1 in 5
primary school pupils need extra support with reading and language — often there is too little time in class.
Safe and guided
Why parents choose Careibu
We guide every match carefully — from the first meeting to the end of the programme.
Carefully screened
Every young person is screened in advance and applies for a Certificate of Conduct (VOG).
Safe location
Meetings always take place in a public setting, for example the library or primary school.
Motivated young people
Young people sign up because they want to make a difference. When they finish, they receive a certificate.
Guidance from Careibu
Our coordinator Luisa is here to help. We also work with care partners to make the reading project as positive as possible for the child and the young person.
Experiences
What parents and carers say
Parents and carers share what a reading buddy has meant for their child.
At first my son barely dared to read aloud. Now he looks forward to his weekly hour with his reading buddy, and at home he picks up a book more often.
Sandra Parent, Utrecht It is reassuring that everything goes through Careibu: screening, VOG and a fixed place at school. That made me feel safe enough to say yes.
Mark Parent, Utrecht Our daughter has dyslexia. The reading buddy takes their time, without rushing. Her teacher noticed a difference after just a few months.
Fatima Carer, Utrecht Request
Request a reading buddy for your child
Fill in the form or contact Luisa directly. Together we will discuss what suits your child.