Something that i think too many doms, or worse yet, people seeing 'ddlg' tags on social media & thinking it would be hot to have a little submissive, dont realize is just how much responsibility comes with having a little. You arent just in control when you both are doing scenes. Yes, its important to know their boundaries, what they like and dont like, and how to tell if theyre uncomfortable. It is important to understand the responsibility one takes on in the role of a dominant, how much power you have in shaping a submissive and how careful you have to be with it.
However, being a caregiver for a little goes far past being able to respect and execute the fantasy of a submissive. You become their role model, their protector. This submissive reverts to a mindset where they are looking at the world with new, softer, more innocent eyes. and they will be looking at you to learn from, to guide them, to help them make sense of it. That childlike sense of wonder and mystery and optimism is so beautiful and delicate and the person who holds the most power over it is you as the dominant. One careless comment or snide remark, a cold shoulder or expression of annoyance, and it can shatter in your little's hands.
The amount of trust a little has to put in their caregiver is monumental. They are in a highly sensitive state, moreso than many other kinds of subspace. Frequently it takes the submissive feeling incredibly safe with you, trusting you to be able to be responsible and careful with this vulnerable and fragile side of them. Once the trust of a little is broken, whether it is by you or another dominant, it is incredibly hard to earn back, and it can be difficult and bittersweet submitting into littlespace again. This trust is something that you have to earn, not something you get for free.
Ask yourself, are you someone a submissive can trust with not only their body but also their mind? Can they hand over all adult responsibility and cognition to you, and can you handle it? Do you have the patience to deal with how littles can be boisterous, annoying, bratty, hyperactive, sensitive, and needy without snapping at them? Do you truly understand the effect you have on this submissive, and the damage you can stand to cause?
Ofcouse, a little is a wonderful submissive to have. It is refreshing to be with someone who looks at the world through such a naive and whimsical sense. It is fulfilling to be able to care for something that puts the highest level of trust in your hands. Littles are adorable and so fun to play with, easy to shape and rewarding to help nurture.
But all of this comes with a price. Please ask yourself if it is something you are willing to pay before jumping into it and hurting them more than you can understand.
