Resources
Find information that will help you help your child.
Sibling Ages 0-7
In most cases, the sibling has the longest-lasting relationship with a person who has a disability. At younger ages, 0-7, they will be playmates with their disabled sibling(s). It is often observed that the sibling(s) will learn their disabled sibling’s queues and needs to an extent that oftentimes exceeds the parent’s because they are spending a lot of time together playing, in the car, etc.
THINGS TO CONSIDER ABOUT YOUR CHILD/CHILDREN (NON-DISABLED) DURING THESE YEARS:
They may start to have questions about why their sibling is ‘different.’ Preparing yourself for answering these types of questions is important so that as they enter school and/or make friends outside of the family, they will be prepared to answer questions their peers my have about their sibling. This communication will be the start of setting up the non-disabled sibling(s) to be a life long advocate for their special needs sib.
Most non-disabled siblings tend to become very independent due to the amount of attention that needs to be paid to their special needs sibling by their parents. Try to make a point to set aside some special time for the non-disabled sibling(s) with each parent. Even if one parent needs to stay with their special needs child at all times, each can take turns.
Check out the list of recommended books below that were written with the non-disabled siblings in mind. These books may help initiate conversation and support as your children grow.
There are many resources online including blogs, support groups, and non-profits that can give you some guidance as your non-disabled child grows up with a special needs sibling.
Resources
Views from our Shoes
Special Brothers and Sisters
Just Because
Everybody is Different
