How to support young siblings

[clkSibs]

Parents of young siblings often feel like it is hard to juggle the needs of all of their children, especially when more of their time might be spent supporting their child with a learning disability. There are some simple things you can do which can really help. Here are a few of our top tips.

1. Spend time each day with siblings one to one

2. Talk about disability from an early age

3. Acknowledge the negative feelings as well as the positive ones

4. Teach siblings fun activities they can do with their brother or sister

5. Give siblings choice about spending time with their brother or sister

6. Limit the type and amount of care and support that siblings do

7. Take action on issues that affect your siblings’ wellbeing and education

8. Talk to siblings in the teenage years about plans for the future

9. Give siblings permission to enjoy and live their own lives

10. Celebrate siblings’ achievements.

You can check out lots more tips and advice on the parent section of the Sibs website here. sibs.org.uk/supporting-youn...

We would love to hear about what has worked for you in supporting young siblings. Do let us know!

Clare

Sibs

[Sarah_Mencap]

Thanks so much for this Clare 😀

[crazysquirrel]

hi Clare. There are also services for young carers if any of your children take on caring for their brother or sister. This has been a lifeline to us in the past. They don't heavy duty caring, but we were often very busy so it was a chance to get out of the house and mix with other young people without needing to explain what was going on at home. They did amazing trips out and regular groups. It was brilliant and I would strongly recommend other parents looking into it and see what is on near them. All your advice is great too. Number 4 (teach siblings fun activities they can do with their brother or sister) is the one that really sticks out for me. It really is vital. Thanks

[clkSibs Expert in reply to crazysquirrel]

Hi there - absolutely great point about young carer services. Lots of siblings we know have had some fantastic support as young carers - and also where they are available, young sibling support groups are a wonderful source of support, and help siblings normalise their experiences. It is good for siblings to know they are aren't alone, so often we hear from siblings who haven't had the opportunity to meet others until adulthood. Glad to hear tip 4 resonated - there is lots more info on building positive relationships between siblings here sibs.org.uk/supporting-youn...

Best wishes

Clare

Sibs