Now that I’m the mother of two children, one with a chronic health condition, and one without, new concerns have arisen when it comes to how I parent. My eldest daughter will need extra attention throughout the course of everyday as there are hours of treatments and therapies that she will need my help with. My younger daughter will need my attention too, just as any child would. I’d like to believe that I will be able to balance the attention between them, giving extra attention to one during some parts of the day and extra to the other during other moments of the day. But I’m pretty sure that will be close to impossible.
Siblings of children with special needs have extra needs of their own. Chronic illness, developmental delays and physical disabilities affect the entire family. Not only do the siblings of special needs children often feel left out, they deal with having to defend their sibling to their peers, the guilt of feeling embarrassed by their sibling, and the worry about the future for their sibling. The mix of emotions is overwhelming for children.
Fortunately, there is help available. Throughout the world, groups are popping up that offer psychological help, friendship and fun for siblings of children with special needs. These groups give the children an outlet while allowing them to meet and befriend other siblings of children with special needs. Fun activities help to break the ice.
One such group is located in the Capital District of New York. The Bus Stop Club is a free program for siblings of chronically ill children ages 7-15. Monthly sessions take place at local YMCAs and include education about their sibling’s condition, activities such as basketball, arts and crafts, and swimming. You can find out more information including locations at their web site.
Another group called Sibshops is a national program that understands that siblings have a lot to offer each other if they are given the opportunity. The program offers unique games, the chance to meet new friends, and the opportunity to discuss life as a sibling of someone with special needs. You can find out more about this program and a location near you by visiting their web site.
If you are the parent of a child with a special need and feel your other children could benefit from a program geared toward them and their unique needs, search for one in your area. It can enhance your children’s outlook on life and their relationships with each other and you.