Intended for siblings of youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, and/or Mental Health Issues

Over Zoom, siblings meet other children and teens who know what it’s like to have a brother or sister with behavioral challenges. Siblings have a chance to talk, learn coping skills and feel better. The Zoom is facilitated by psychiatrists and trainees at UMass Chan Medical School.

What about parents & caregivers? First-time participants join a Zoom session led by our trained parent mentor. They learn about the sibling experience, the importance of supporting siblings, and strategies to support siblings. Returning participants join a different Zoom session, led by the program social worker, to address ongoing family challenges that impact siblings.

Registration is required. We meet the first Thursday night of each month at 5:30pm.

Details…

1. Is there a cost? This is a free program.

2. Who is eligible? All caregivers are eligible if the affected child has siblings of any age. Siblings are eligible if they are 6 – 18 years old and do not have significant behavioral issues of their own.

3. Can caregivers attend even if siblings do not attend? Yes, and vice versa.

4. How do I register? To ask questions or reserve your spot, call (857) 523-1145 or email emily.rubin@umassmed.edu. After signing an online consent form, you will receive an email with instructions to log into Zoom.

Sibshops
Registration is required. During sibships, siblings will meet other siblings of children with special needs and have a great time interacting. Obtain peer support and education in a fun and recreational environment. Share experiences and obstacles with other siblings who understand. Take part in fun activities like Sky Zone, snow tubing, and Plaster Fun Time! To register,  contact the Respite and Recreation Program Manager. Siblings will meet one Sunday a month, 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Drop off and pick up at the Newton JCC, 333 Nahanton Street, Newton, MA.

The MSSN is here to help. We are the only organization in Massachusetts focused on supporting you: the siblings of people with disabilities. Our network is made up of adult siblings, parents of young siblings, service providers, educators, mental health and medical professionals. We provide information on sibling issues, referrals to sibling services, and social connections for siblings of all ages.

Sibshops are a recreational peer support program for siblings (ages 8-13) with a brother or sister with any developmental, behavioral or medical health disorder. Groups meet with sufficient interest at the Peabody Institute Library, Danvers. Call for details and to register.

Sibshops
Sibling Support: Brothers and sister ages 8 to 12 who have siblings with special needs are invited to participate in Sibshops, a recreationally-based program that provides opportunities for friendship and FUN! We meet during school vacation weeks and summer vacation. Please Call for more information.

Hospital-based support, for siblings of children of all ages who are patients of Boston Floating Hospital for Children. Call for meeting dates and the specific location at Boston Floating Hospital for Children, Department of Hematology and Oncology.

Bereavement – Sibling Cancer
This is a monthly support group that focuses on sibling bereavement for children. A facilitator uses a variety of activities and crafts to encourage the children to explore and share their feelings related to the loss of their siblings. This group is offered at the same time as the Circle of Healing meeting for parents. It is particularly important because a sibling’s bereavement journey evolves with each developmental stage; grief issues are revisited with changing life events. Sharing their common experience with other siblings in a small supportive group can be an important part of coping with family issues, reducing isolation and improving communication.