Siblings of kids with Special Needs 2

Continued from:http://commadvocates.blogspot.com/2010/05/siblings-of-kids-with-special-needs.html

13. Weigh the cost of actions to all children against the benefit to one.

14. Find manageable ways to spend quality time individually with sibling.

15. Look for workshops and seminars offered by community groups.

16. Remember that the siblings of special needs kids are kids first. Before "blaming" sibling problems or family issues on the challenges around living with special needs, first see if there is another reason that is unrelated to the special needs. Maybe the sibling is acting out because he or she is having a hard time at school or a problem with friends or a girl/boy friend. Look at the whole child first, before assuming that it is the issue of special needs that is causing the problem. Again, when parents feel guilty, the situation is more easily confused.

17. Think positively. A positive attitude about situations and yourself is your most important asset in coping with stress.

And at last but not the least important …….

Please remember that you, as the parent or caregiver for a special needs child, are a special person too. Be kind to yourself. Watch out for burnout.

Source: Delores Curran,"100 ways to reduce Family Stress" Family Support Bulletin