YOUR FIRST MEETING

Do not get discouraged if your little sibling does not talk to you or if the parents seem hesitant or suspicious. They may have had many bad experiences in the past...it takes time to build trust!!!

When you were interviewed, you were given a short description of your little sibling--what type of child he/she is, likes and dislikes, and any specific needs or problems that may come up in your relationship. You were also given basic information such as his/her telephone number, home address, school, birthday, etc. All of this background info will help prepare you for your first visit.

If you do not meet the parents the same day as you neet you little sibling, it is a good idea to speak to them at the next meeting in order to introduce yourself. Let them know the time when you will pick up the child, what the two of you will be doing (ask permission if appropriate), and when you will return.

Your first meeting with your little sibling and his/her family will be very important. It will set the tone for your relationship. Here are some suggestions to help you get over that first "hurdle."

  1. Think about the meeting before you go. Think over what you will say and do when meeting your little sibling and his/her family.
  2. Introduce yourself and meet the parents and other members of the family.
  3. Tell about yourself--where you are from, what you do in school, your family, your hobbies and other interests.
  4. Tell why you are interested in being a Big Brother/Sister to their child.
  5. Try to direct your conversation to your little sibling as much as possible from the start. Let your little sibling know right away that you are his/her friend and that he/she is your primary interest in that home.
  6. Try to determine common interests.
  7. At the end of the afternoon, set a specific day, time, and meeting place for you next visit. Call sometime during the week before your next visit. If you use the DCS cars, setting a definite day and time for your next visit might not be possible. If this is the case, talk about possible times for your next visit and set a specific day and time that you will call your little sibling about your next visit together. Meanwhile, come in to DCS and reserve a car.