Supporting Sibling Relationships in Early Intervention Families

Did you know that supporting sibling bonds can make a huge difference for families with a child in early intervention? When siblings feel included and valued, the entire family thrives. But juggling therapy sessions, emotional needs, and daily routines can sometimes leave other children feeling left out or unsure.

By actively including siblings in early intervention activities, families can nurture sibling relationships. This benefits children, parents, and caregivers alike. So, let’s explore practical ways to build stronger and happier sibling connections.

Why Siblings Matter

Siblings often spend more time together than anyone else in the family. They share games, inside jokes, and countless day-to-day moments. But when a child needs early intervention, siblings may get overlooked. They might feel jealous or guilty about their own emotions. On the flip side, when they’re part of the process, siblings can grow in empathy, patience, and understanding.

Involving Siblings in Therapy

Looking for a simple way to include siblings? Let them join therapy sessions! If your child is working on motor skills, have their brother or sister play a matching game or do a quick warm-up dance. Older siblings can help by modeling good behavior or guiding a practice activity. The key is keeping it fun and age-appropriate so everyone feels successful.

For younger siblings, simple tasks such as handing toys to the child can be rewarding. Older siblings might assist by modeling behaviors or participating in role-playing exercises. The key is to make these activities fun and collaborative, ensuring that siblings feel included. Maybe they pass the therapy ball or cheer their brother or sister on during practice. These small gestures help everyone feel like part of the team.

Open and Honest Communication

Kids pick up on more than we realize. When parents explain —in simple, clear terms— why therapy is necessary and what it involves, siblings feel informed rather than confused. They’re less likely to resent the extra time spent on interventions.

Encourage siblings to share questions or worries. A safe, judgment-free chat can go a long way. If six-year-old Max wonders why his younger sister has so many appointments, let him voice that concern. Validating feelings can prevent jealousy from building up.

Taking Time for Everyone

Feeling left out is a common complaint among siblings in early intervention families. Carve out one-on-one time with each child— take a walk, read a story, bake cookies, or play catch. Remind them that they are special, too. This balancing act helps maintain harmony and keeps resentment at bay.

Practical Tip: Schedule mini “dates” with the siblings of children in early intervention:

A quick ice cream run
A favorite board game
A backyard scavenger hunt

Educational Resources for Siblings

Sometimes, siblings need help understanding the why behind therapy. Age-appropriate books or videos can make a big difference. Titles like “My Brother Charlie” or “We’ll Paint the Octopus Red” explain disabilities or developmental delays in relatable ways.

Even creating a family role-playing game can help siblings practice supportive behaviors. Role-playing allows siblings to act out different therapy scenarios in a playful setting. They might pretend to be the therapist, the child receiving therapy, or even the parent cheering from the sidelines. This fun approach helps everyone appreciate each other’s roles, build empathy, and learn teamwork— making daily interactions smoother and more supportive.

Support Groups and Counseling

You’re not alone in this journey. Local sibling support groups or online forums offer a place for kids to share feelings with others who “get it.” Counseling sessions can also provide the whole family with healthy communication tools. Consider checking whether your early intervention team has suggestions for local or virtual support options.

Possible Hurdles

Even with the best planning, challenges happen. Tension can build if therapy schedules take over family time, or if siblings feel overshadowed. Regular family meetings (over pizza or during a relaxed evening) help everyone voice concerns and celebrate wins. Maybe the child in therapy finally said a new word, or the sibling learned to tie their shoes—both achievements deserve recognition.

A Family That Grows Together

Above all, remember that involving siblings in early intervention isn’t just about the child with special needs— it’s about fostering a loving, balanced family life. When siblings feel acknowledged and included, they learn resilience, acceptance, and compassion. In the end, everyone benefits from a home where each child’s needs and contributions are celebrated.

Do you have a family story about siblings stepping up during therapy? Share it with others, and keep those positive connections growing.

Early Intervention Therapies

If you have questions about your child’s development, feel free to call TEIS Early Intervention at 412-217-8347 or ask your pediatrician about early intervention therapies. If your child qualifies for services, you can request TEIS Early Intervention to be your child’s provider.

At TEIS Early Intervention, our therapists listen to your concerns, assess your child’s individual needs, develop a customized treatment plan, and coach you along the way with simple, routine-based solutions to maximize your child’s development in their natural environment.

Early intervention evaluations and therapy services are available under the Federal Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities. Before services can begin, an independent evaluation of your child must be completed. To ensure impartiality, one agency provides evaluation services while another offers therapeutic services.

To schedule an evaluation, call 1-800-692-7288 or email to help@connectpa.net