Supporting Siblings of Children in Therapy: Simple Ways to Foster Connection and Balance
The entire family feels the impact when a child is enrolled in pediatric therapy. Siblings, in particular, may experience a range of emotions—from pride in their sibling’s progress to feelings of confusion or jealousy due to their sibling's increased attention. By intentionally fostering connection and balance, families can ensure that siblings feel included, valued, and supported.
Acknowledge Their Emotions
Children often have complex emotions about their sibling's therapy journey, even if they can't fully articulate them. Some siblings may feel pride, while others may feel overlooked or uncertain.
Tips to Acknowledge Emotions:
Encourage open conversations where siblings can express how they feel.
Validate their emotions by reassuring them that feeling sad, confused, or frustrated is okay.
Use age-appropriate books or stories that address sibling dynamics to open up discussions.
Create One-on-One Bonding Time
Quality time with parents helps siblings feel special and appreciated, even amidst a busy therapy schedule.
Ideas for Bonding Activities:
Go for a walk or bike ride together.
Plan small, special outings, like grabbing a treat at their favorite café.
Have "home adventures" like movie nights, arts and crafts, or baking sessions.
Even short moments of connection can have a lasting positive impact.
Include Siblings in Therapy Milestones
Involving siblings in therapy-related celebrations can foster empathy and a sense of pride in their sibling’s progress.
Ways to Celebrate Together:
Share progress updates with simple, age-appropriate language (e.g., “Your sister worked really hard today and learned to take a new bite of food!”).
Plan small family celebrations for therapy milestones, like having a family game night or making a favorite meal.
Including siblings in the positive moments helps them feel connected to their sibling’s journey.
Provide Age-Appropriate Education
Siblings may feel less overwhelmed when they understand why their sibling is in therapy and what it is for.
Educational Tips:
Explain the purpose of therapy in simple terms (e.g., “Your brother’s exercises help his muscles get stronger so he can sit up and play with you longer.”).
Answer their questions honestly and with age-appropriate language.
Use visuals or child-friendly explanations to describe therapy activities.
Encourage Positive Roles and Responsibilities
Giving siblings meaningful roles in their sibling’s care can foster connection and reduce feelings of helplessness.
Examples of Positive Roles:
Helping set up therapy tools or cheering their sibling on during exercises.
Creating fun games to encourage sibling interaction during home programs.
Becoming a “helpful coach” by praising their sibling’s efforts.
It’s important to ensure these roles are optional so siblings don’t feel burdened by responsibility.
Offer Time and Space for Independence
While inclusion is important, siblings also need time to explore their interests and cultivate independence.
Ways to Support Their Individual Growth:
Encourage hobbies or after-school activities that are just for them.
Create quiet spaces where they can read, play, or recharge.
Celebrate their individual achievements, big or small.
This balance helps siblings feel like they are not defined solely by their role within the family dynamic.
Seek Community Support
Sometimes, connecting with other families who have children in therapy can provide siblings with relatable experiences and friendships.
Community Resources to Explore:
Local support groups for siblings of children with special needs.
Social activities organized by therapy centers or parent organizations.
Group outings or playdates where siblings can meet peers with similar experiences.
These connections can normalize their feelings and foster a sense of belonging.\
Model Self-Care as a Family
Children often follow suit when parents model self-care and prioritize their emotional well-being.
Family Self-Care Ideas:
Practice mindfulness together with simple breathing exercises.
Schedule downtime for the whole family to relax and unwind.
Take breaks from therapy discussions to focus on unrelated, fun family activities.
Conclusion
Supporting siblings of children in therapy is about fostering an inclusive and loving environment where every child feels seen and valued. By providing emotional support, celebrating individual and shared milestones, and creating meaningful opportunities for connection, families can strengthen their bonds and help siblings thrive alongside their brothers or sisters.
With intentional care, siblings can grow to be empathetic, resilient individuals who feel deeply connected to their family’s shared journey.
