What are the expectations of Big Siblings?
Big Siblings are expected to make at least a year’s commitment (September – May, or from the time they are assigned to the little sibling to the end of the academic year). How often the Big Sibling meets with the Little Sibling will depend on the family’s preferences and student’s schedule, though we would hope that they would have contact at least once every two weeks at minimum. Building a relationship takes time and it is important for the child to have some continuity in their relationship with the Big Sibling. In the ordinary case Big Siblings should not plan to spend time alone with the Little Sibling. For the student’s safety and the safety of the child, another adult should be with the Siblings when they spend time together. As time goes on, we may institute procedures (e.g., a CORI and a legal release by families) that will provide greater flexibility in your activities. Note that Big Siblings should not be used as baby sitters. This not only a consequence of the policy that s
