For Parents

Knowing how to effectively support the sibling of a child with physical, emotional, and cognitive differences can be challenging. The resources linked above help parents navigate siblings' experiences and challenges.

These organizations host events and Facebook groups and link various resources to support siblings of all ages.  

The sibling relationship between a typical-functioning child and a special needs child is complex. The article linked above discusses the relationship from siblings' points of view and gives guidance for parents.

Find visual and auditorial explanations of siblings' and families' stories and introductions to organizations. 

If you enjoy listening to Podcasts and are seeking guidance to support your neuro-typical child, these sibling-focused podcasts are a great resource.  

Studies have proven that the siblings of children with emotional, physical, and cognitive differences can develop certain traits learned from their relationship with their sibling. These traits may include greater cognitive empathy, patience, and compassion. 

Guilt and resentment are feelings felt by many siblings, but they are often not discussed. These feelings can be confusing and upsetting, and the help of a parent can be impactful and critical to a sibling's well-being.

Being the parent of a child with developmental disabilities is unimaginably challenging and requires great attention, leading to many siblings feeling that they are overlooked and isolated. They often impose pressure on themselves to thrive, so as not to further burden their parents. These resources explain Well Sibling and Glass-Child Syndrome and how they can be approached.

Recent clinical studies have proven that siblings of children with developmental disabilities are more prone to struggling with mental illness. The article linked goes more in-depth about siblings' risk for mental illness to raise awareness among siblings and parents.

The resources linked above help siblings and families of children with emotional, cognitive, and physical differences plan for the future. 

Studies conducted with siblings of children with different conditions and challenges can be informative and useful for parents. The linked research studies include examinations of the psychological impact of having a sibling with special needs, the sibling relationship, and more.