Family life can be a bit different for children and young people when their brother or sister has Additional Needs or Disabilities (AND). Things like going out for the day or getting enough sleep might be more of a challenge and this can be hard for siblings to cope with. Parent/ carers often ask us what support is available for their sibling child, so we have put together this information to help you find help and advice both locally and online.
Advice and information
Charities and services who support families with children with special educational needs and disabilities can offer information about how to include siblings and support their bond. Other parents can also be a great source of advice, as they give a personal account of what has worked well for their family.
- is a national charity which supports brothers and sisters of adults and children with disabilities. Their website has a large amount of information on ways parents can support the sibling child and promote a good sibling bond between the children.
- is part of Sibs and is a website for children and young people who have a sibling with SEND. Children can talk to other siblings who have similar experiences and age-appropriate information is available to help children understand more about SEND.
- is a safe space for children to socialise with others who understand their situation in a welcoming, environment designed to relieve children of any mental and emotional strain they may have.
- have a booklet for parents about who have a brother or sister with SEND.
- about disabled children or children who have siblings with disabilities can be a nice way to help siblings feel there are other children like them. It can also help to open up a conversation, especially with children who are usually a little reluctant to share their worries with you.
- provide practical advice about how to provide emotional support for children who have lost a close loved one, including siblings whose brother or sister has died.
Activities that siblings can do together
A challenge that parents often face is finding childcare or activities that all their children can enjoy, at the same time and place. Below are some examples of activities you can access in ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø and things you can try at home.
- have a wide range of services for the local community, including short breaks for children with SEND. Their holiday play scheme is suitable for children of all abilities from ages 4 (school age) to 11.
- is for children and young people aged 5-25 and their siblings. Taking place on Saturdays during term time, each w