How You Can Help Siblings of Special-Needs Kids
Siblings of a special-needs child are greatly affected by the shift their family must make. Many times they feel left out, confused, isolated, and unable to find a place to freely express their struggles. Here are 10 very simple ways you can help kids who have a disabled brother or sister:
- Listen without criticizing them, judging them, or telling them how to feel.
- Attend their sporting events.
- Assist with their transportation needs.
- Take them to the movies, the mall, or any place they enjoy that’s away from the house.
- Engage with them in their favorite hobby.
- Ask their parents how the sibling(s) are doing.
- Celebrate their accomplishments at school or at church.
- Send them funny cards and encouraging notes through the mail.
- Offer to help them with school projects and extended assignments.
- Play. Take a walk or a run; lift weights; play board games; offer creative expression by coloring, drawing, sketching, and painting together; get outside; or provide laughter.