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Big FAQs
Who are the Bigs in the program?
Our Big come from diverse backgrounds just like our Littles. They are regular people, just like you. You don’t need any special degrees or job skills. You just have to want to positively impact a young person. Our mentors are an inclusive group from all walks of life, including diverse ages, ethnicities, genders, religions, sexual orientation, countries of origin, and socioeconomic status. Role models come in all shapes and sizes, and you could be a perfect fit!
When can I see my Little?
As a Big/Little team, you decide together what you want to do and obtain parental approval. We recommend that you keep a consistent schedule of outings and get together on a regular basis. Your local agency will provide more guidance on this. Until your relationship is established, the outings will also depend on the comfort level of your Little’s parents, your Little, and you.
How much money should I spend?
The quality of time invested with your Little is more important than the amount of money you spend. That’s why we don’t encourage spending a lot of money on your outings. The goal of the relationship is to help your Little see the world through a different lens so you can inspire them to become something they never thought possible. If you are going to spend money, we encourage you to seek out low-cost activities, especially in the beginning. Shoot hoops at a local park, play a game together, or share that pizza that you were going to have for lunch anyway. Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies offer donor-supported group activities that are a great way to meet other Bigs and Littles. As a Big, you may also receive notices for free tickets to cultural and sports activities for both of you to enjoy.
What are some good ideas for outings with my Little?
Share an activity that gives you something in common to talk about. Buy a comic book to read together. Play a board game. Go to the library to check out a book and read together. Go on a nature walk. Hit a bucket of golf balls at the local driving range. Or hang out and talk about the music you like. You want to select activities that give each of you a chance to learn more about one another. For children, playing can be learning. Most important: keep it simple and enjoy yourselves!
Can I bring my spouse, a friend, or family member on outings?
In the beginning, it’s important for you and your Little to get to know each other. This can happen best on a one-to-one basis. However, over time it’s also valuable for your Little to get to know the people who are important to you. Just keep in mind that if you’re spending lots of time with others, your Little may begin to feel jealous or neglected. The main focus is the friendship you develop with your Little and the impact you have on their life.
What kind of support can I expect from Big Brothers Big Sisters once I get matched?
Once you are matched with your Little Brother or Little Sister, a professionally trained Match Support Specialist from the agency will be in regular contact with you to provide assistance and give feedback. Any time you are unsure about what to do or how to handle a situation, you will have a Match Support Specialist there to help. They’ll help you with ideas for activities, guidance for handling possible difficult situations, and provide feedback on how you are making a difference.
Will I become a replacement parent?
No, Littles have a parent or guardian in their life already. What they need is a Big to spend quality, one-on-one time with them. Someone to have fun with and someone they can confide in: someone like you!
Our Big come from diverse backgrounds just like our Littles. They are regular people, just like you. You don’t need any special degrees or job skills. You just have to want to positively impact a young person. Our mentors are an inclusive group from all walks of life, including diverse ages, ethnicities, genders, religions, sexual orientation, countries of origin, and socioeconomic status. Role models come in all shapes and sizes, and you could be a perfect fit!
When can I see my Little?
As a Big/Little team, you decide together what you want to do and obtain parental approval. We recommend that you keep a consistent schedule of outings and get together on a regular basis. Your local agency will provide more guidance on this. Until your relationship is established, the outings will also depend on the comfort level of your Little’s parents, your Little, and you.
How much money should I spend?
The quality of time invested with your Little is more important than the amount of money you spend. That’s why we don’t encourage spending a lot of money on your outings. The goal of the relationship is to help your Little see the world through a different lens so you can inspire them to become something they never thought possible. If you are going to spend money, we encourage you to seek out low-cost activities, especially in the beginning. Shoot hoops at a local park, play a game together, or share that pizza that you were going to have for lunch anyway. Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies offer donor-supported group activities that are a great way to meet other Bigs and Littles. As a Big, you may also receive notices for free tickets to cultural and sports activities for both of you to enjoy.
What are some good ideas for outings with my Little?
Share an activity that gives you something in common to talk about. Buy a comic book to read together. Play a board game. Go to the library to check out a book and read together. Go on a nature walk. Hit a bucket of golf balls at the local driving range. Or hang out and talk about the music you like. You want to select activities that give each of you a chance to learn more about one another. For children, playing can be learning. Most important: keep it simple and enjoy yourselves!
Can I bring my spouse, a friend, or family member on outings?
In the beginning, it’s important for you and your Little to get to know each other. This can happen best on a one-to-one basis. However, over time it’s also valuable for your Little to get to know the people who are important to you. Just keep in mind that if you’re spending lots of time with others, your Little may begin to feel jealous or neglected. The main focus is the friendship you develop with your Little and the impact you have on their life.
What kind of support can I expect from Big Brothers Big Sisters once I get matched?
Once you are matched with your Little Brother or Little Sister, a professionally trained Match Support Specialist from the agency will be in regular contact with you to provide assistance and give feedback. Any time you are unsure about what to do or how to handle a situation, you will have a Match Support Specialist there to help. They’ll help you with ideas for activities, guidance for handling possible difficult situations, and provide feedback on how you are making a difference.
Will I become a replacement parent?
No, Littles have a parent or guardian in their life already. What they need is a Big to spend quality, one-on-one time with them. Someone to have fun with and someone they can confide in: someone like you!
*Page content developed, formatted, and created by Valerie DiGangi, MA, NCC and Marianna Strasz, MSSW*