Frequently Asked Questions
How much was changed with the new version?
If I have a few of the Student Workbooks left over can I use them along with the new version?
When The Big D became published in August of 2010 it went through a complete re-edit. There is a new cover design along with it having a glue binding compared to the original spiral binding. There were no major changes, the edits were mostly just grammatical in nature. Although there were some changes made to some Taking it Home questions. It would not be impossible to navigate through the differences but may cause some confusion from time to time. Although my recommendation would be with the major change in the design I would suggest having everyone have the same workbooks. Teens don’t like to appear different from others. I apologize for the inconvenience. To help you with this I offer to replace one Leaders Guide and one Activity Guide or Student Workbook for free with your first order.
Is the Weekend Event just a shorter version of the 12 Week Curriculum Kit?
No, the Weekend Event and the 12 Week Kit are made up of completely different material. The Weekend Event is designed to be used as a precursor for a 12 Week group. It also works well for those organizations who do not have the leadership to put together a full 12 week program at this time or just want to see what the interest would be to have a more organized program some day. It comes in both a long or short version so it is very adaptable for any situation or any organization.
I want to run it alongside a similar 13 week program. What can I do on the 13th week?
The Big D is designed to end with a Celebration Night on the 13th week. This is not part of the curriculum but it is encouraged all along the way. It is important for teens to celebrate their successes and completing The Big D is certainly something you want to celebrate. It is not easy for teens to process their pain. We need to appreciate the work they have done. This is something you can do individually as a group or you can invite their parents to join them.
Does the Weekend Event have to be an over-nighter?
No, the Weekend Event is designed to be either an over-nighter or a 2 day event. There are suggestions for both in the Leaders Guide.
How long does a typical night take?
That is a good question. It really depends on how many teens you have attending. The more teens you have the longer it will take to go through the material. The Big D is designed to give you plenty of material to get done in an hour and a half. If you have 2 hours you will have no problem filling that time. If you have a larger group (8 or more) you may need to pick and choose some activities. Every group is different and the size and ages really makes a huge difference. On the average I feel you will lean towards too much material instead of not enough.
How many leaders are ideal?
That is a tough question. It really depends on the age of your teens. Ideally it would be great to always have at least 2 leaders. It is great to have one to lead the group and one to give some special one on one attention when needed. But I have seen organizations do it with one leader. I would suggest a base of 2 leaders and adding one at least every 6 teens. For example if you have 12 teens, you should have 3 leaders.
What shipping method do you primarily use?
Depending on the size of order I will either use Priority Mailing through the Postal Service or for bigger orders I will use UPS. If you have a particular preference please let me know at the time of placing your order.
How long will it take to receive my order?
It really depends on your location. The Big D is located in Minnesota. I usually ship all orders within 2 days of receiving the order. You should receive your order within one week. Unless I am waiting for stock. I keep tracking numbers for all my shipments so if you have not received your order within one week, please call me and I will provide you with a tracking number.
What if PayPal is not working?
I do my best at keeping my website and PayPal working at all times. But if you are experiencing difficulties in placing your order or making payment, I welcome you to call me directly to place your order anytime. You can reach me at 763-218-0446.
What payment methods do you take?
If you are ordering through PayPal they offer paying through your personal PayPal account or any credit card you may have. If you call, fax, email, or mail me your order, I offer payment through a check, invoice or Visa/Mastercard.
What if I want to preview the curriculum prior to ordering?
I have no problem with that. I am so confident you will love what you see that I offer to send you a kit for 30 days for you to preview with no commitment needed. I also provide a sample lesson from the 12 week program on the website for you to preview. You will need to call or email me directly to request the 30 day preview so no payment is required to place your order.
What if you are looking for area organizations to network with?
I would be happy to send you information of organizations around your area who are either doing or interesting in offering The Big D. Please just send me an email at - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to request that information.
How much does shipping cost?
Of course it depends on the size of your order but the average shipping cost is 15.00.
Are you on FaceBook?
Yes. To find me search under “SonsetPointMinistries”. I would love to be your friend!
Do you have a blog?
Yes. If you look at my homepage of my website: www.sonsetpointministries.com you will see a link to my blog.
What is Sonset Point Ministries?
Sonset Point Ministries is the parent organization that encompasses both The Big D and The Slippery Slope board games. Please check us both out at www.sonsetpointministries.com.
Is The Big D copy written?
Yes. But you are allowed to make copies of all the Attachment pages in the Leaders Guide. If you have a need to make additional copies of anything, please give me a call or email me directly.
Do you have any promo material available?
Yes. There are some on my website under the Promo link. If you are looking for something else or some sample letters, feel free to email me at - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
What is your return policy?
As long as it is in good condition you can return anything up to 3 months from your purchase date. Just call or email me with your information.
Is The Big D a video led curriculum?
No, The Big D is a leader led curriculum. The Leaders Guide is filled with all the detailed information that you need to lead your group. It is very easy to use and provides you with everything that you will need to run a successful group. If you are looking for more impactful ways to reach your teens, look through the Activity Guide that comes along with your curriculum kit for many additional ideas. The DVD that comes along with the kit provides you with video clips to use along with your session topics. A breakdown of topics is in the Appendix of your Leaders Guide.
How young can a teen be to be in The Big D?
If they are siblings I have gone as young as age 10 but it is best to stay at age 11 and above.
Do I have to buy the Curriculum Kit or can I just buy a Leaders Guide to run the program?
In order for you to have rights to run a Big D program you do have to purchase the entire Curriculum Kit first. Included in the curriculum package is; a Leaders Guide, a Student Workbook, an Activity Guide, a Suggested Agenda and Timeline for Success pamphlet, and the DVD of video clips, all in your very own Big D tote bag.
