How to Establish a Good Relationship with your Little Brother/Little Sister
1. Never break a promise. Follow through consistently. Be very honest. Once your Little Brother/Little Sister develops trust in you, he/she may learn to trust others and him/herself
2. Be patient. Don't expect immediate and remarkable changes. It will take considerable time for your Little Brother/Little Sister to follow your example.
3. Let your Little know that you are thinking of them. Call them just to talk
4. Encourage your little to take the responsibility of calling you and helping plan outings. But remember, that as the adult, you should take the initiative when he/she is not able to
5. Remember that simple activities provide great opportunities for building a friendship. Introduce your little brother/sister to your friends, your interests, your work. This may be a revelation of a new kind of home and world from him/her
6. You can't buy friendship. Use money sparingly. The important aspects of a friendship are developed with little cost.
7. Call your Mentoring Coordinator at the office whenever you need to talk. It's pleasant to share the good times and helpful to talk over any difficulties
8. Enjoy yourself. Have fun. Make this a rewarding experience for both you and your little.
Adapted from the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada website
How parents can increase the success of a Match
1. A close friendship with not develop instantly between the volunteer and the child. The relationship must be permitted to take it's own course over time
2. When possible, fees and costs of activities should be shared. This depends on the financial situation of each individual
3. The volunteer is spending their time with the child and needs to feel appreciated. Please encourage your child to say "thank you"
4. Disciplining your child at home should not involve the volunteer. Please avoid restricting outings with the volunteer as a form of punishment. This would be unfair for the volunteer and could impede on the success of the match
5. Please make sure your child is properly dressed for the outing and is ready on time.
6. Please notify the volunteer of any activity that you object to.
7. Do not discourage your child from calling the volunteer at home unless he/she is exaggerating the number of calls.
8. Please inform the agency of all the family situations that might affect the match: change of address, phone number etc.
Adapted from the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada website