"You Are Not Alone!"
By Kristina de Mora
Have you ever felt left out when your parents have given their undivided attention to your sibling with special needs? Don’t worry, you are not alone! Being a typically developing child in a household where a brother or sister has a disability can sometimes feel isolating. Parents of children with special needs don’t intend to leave siblings behind, but with the hustle and bustle of doctor’s appointments, educational meetings, and therapies, it just happens.
Ironically, siblings of children with disabilities have needs themselves. When they begin to realize that their brother or sister is “different”, siblings can experience a range of difficult emotions. They can feel jealous of the attention their sibling receives, which can cause problems in the family. These sentiments can start very early and continue into adolescence and adulthood. As a sibling, try to understand the unique needs of your brother or sister who has a disability and make sure that your own needs are not neglected at the same time.
It is important to focus on the positive. Fully understand your sibling’s issues and remind yourself of what makes your sibling unique. For example, if your sibling has autism, it is natural to feel frustrated that he does things differently than you. However, your sibling may be great with computers or a U.S. History whiz. Remind yourself that you and your sibling are both unique people who deserve to be loved.
Try to set aside some alone time with your parents. This is probably the most important piece of advice. Because children with challenges require more time and attention, make sure you and your parents set aside time each week for each other. One-on-one attention is essential to help siblings feel that their needs and interests are just as important as their siblings'. Discuss what you are learning in school, talk about your friends, or even a new Netflix series. Having this time together will also allow you to check in and bring any concerns to your parents’ attention.
While having a sibling with special needs can be hard at times, it also can teach you a great deal of life lessons. Kids who grow up with a sibling with special needs are often more flexible, patient, empathetic, and well-adjusted adults. By being open, understanding, and positive, you can reduce the stress level for all and maintain a great relationship with your family.
Siblings with a Mission is a non-profit, international organization established to serve and support siblings of individuals with special needs. All images are found on Google images and are solely used for education purposes. The stories and advice provided by Siblings with a Mission are not to be replaced by professional advice and counseling but to be considered as an additional source of support.
By Kristina de Mora
Have you ever felt left out when your parents have given their undivided attention to your sibling with special needs? Don’t worry, you are not alone! Being a typically developing child in a household where a brother or sister has a disability can sometimes feel isolating. Parents of children with special needs don’t intend to leave siblings behind, but with the hustle and bustle of doctor’s appointments, educational meetings, and therapies, it just happens.
Ironically, siblings of children with disabilities have needs themselves. When they begin to realize that their brother or sister is “different”, siblings can experience a range of difficult emotions. They can feel jealous of the attention their sibling receives, which can cause problems in the family. These sentiments can start very early and continue into adolescence and adulthood. As a sibling, try to understand the unique needs of your brother or sister who has a disability and make sure that your own needs are not neglected at the same time.
It is important to focus on the positive. Fully understand your sibling’s issues and remind yourself of what makes your sibling unique. For example, if your sibling has autism, it is natural to feel frustrated that he does things differently than you. However, your sibling may be great with computers or a U.S. History whiz. Remind yourself that you and your sibling are both unique people who deserve to be loved.
Try to set aside some alone time with your parents. This is probably the most important piece of advice. Because children with challenges require more time and attention, make sure you and your parents set aside time each week for each other. One-on-one attention is essential to help siblings feel that their needs and interests are just as important as their siblings'. Discuss what you are learning in school, talk about your friends, or even a new Netflix series. Having this time together will also allow you to check in and bring any concerns to your parents’ attention.
While having a sibling with special needs can be hard at times, it also can teach you a great deal of life lessons. Kids who grow up with a sibling with special needs are often more flexible, patient, empathetic, and well-adjusted adults. By being open, understanding, and positive, you can reduce the stress level for all and maintain a great relationship with your family.
Siblings with a Mission is a non-profit, international organization established to serve and support siblings of individuals with special needs. All images are found on Google images and are solely used for education purposes. The stories and advice provided by Siblings with a Mission are not to be replaced by professional advice and counseling but to be considered as an additional source of support.
