Siblings & Families

Information & Support

• Massachusetts Sibling Support Network (MSSN)

  • The MSSN is an organization focused on supporting the siblings of people with disabilities. Their network is made up of adult siblings, parents of young siblings, service providers, educators, mental health and medical professionals. They provide information on sibling issues, referrals to sibling services, and social connections for siblings of all ages.

• Sibling Leadership Network

  • The mission of the Sibling Leadership Network is to provide siblings of individuals with disabilities the information, support and tools to advocate with their brothers and sisters and to promote the issues important to them and their entire families.

• The Sibling Experience: What Parents Need to Know

  • Notes from MSSN presentation to help parents understand key sibling issues, understand how to foster a positive sibling experience, how to support young and adult siblings, and what resources are available to help.

Workshops & Groups

• Charles River Center Sibling Support Group for Teens

  • A group for teens between the ages of 14 and 19 to meet other teens who understand what it is like to have a sibling with a disability. There will be time for games, discussion, eating, and planning outings together. For more infomration, contact Kelly Atkins at katkins@charlesrivercenter.org or at 781-972-1060.

• The Parent Partnership Sib Club

  • A free group for siblings (ages 6-12) of children/adolescents with mental health challenges. This support group will allow siblings of children with mental health issues to “kick back”, relax and have some fun with other siblings who are experiencing similar life situations. For more information, please contact Ann Killion at (508) 620-0010 ext. 194 or emailann_killion@waysideyouth.org

• Sibling Support Groups — Child Therapy in Boston

  • Needham-based sibling support groups offer a chance for siblings to connect with other kids and teens who are going through the same things and understand all of the thoughts and emotions that they may often be too afraid to share.

• SibShops

  • Sibshops acknowledge that being the brother or sister of a person with special needs is for some a good thing, others a not-so-good thing, and for many, somewhere in-between. They reflect a belief that brothers and sisters have much to offer one another — if they are given a chance. Sibshops are a spirited mix of new games (designed to be unique, off-beat, and appealing to a wide ability range), new friends, and discussion activities.

  • > SibShops in Massachusetts

  • > SibShops at The Bridge Center

 Articles

• "5 Ways to Support Siblings in Special Needs Families"

  • Making sure the other kids get what they need, too. By Alyson Krueger