Sibshops (Workshops for Siblings of Children with Support Needs)

Widely used for more than 40 years in hundreds of communities worldwide, Sibshops are lively, low-cost workshops where siblings can share their joys and challenges, learn from their peers, and just have fun together. Enhanced with new research, online materials, and 100+ engaging activities, this updated guide makes it easier than ever to create and launch a Sibshop in your own community. You’ll get practical instructions for every step of planning, promoting, budgeting, and running a successful Sibshop, plus insights from siblings and Sibshop facilitators throughout the world. Perfect for all programs and professionals serving families of children with disabilities, this complete how-to guide will help you create upbeat, rewarding, and welcoming workshops that give siblings much-needed support.

WHY SIBSHOPS?

Sibshops are a great opportunity for siblings to:

• Meet other siblings in a relaxed setting and enjoy fun activities together
• Reduce their sense of isolation by affirming that they’re not alone
• Learn how their peers handle situations commonly experienced by siblings
• Get answers to their questions about their siblings’ support needs
• Develop friendships that will be ongoing sources of validation and support

WHAT’S NEW: Learn from new research and guidance on timely topics: creating safe and supportive spaces for all children, planning online Sibshops, designing Sibshops for teens, applying trauma-informed practices to Sibshops, and using technology to help recruit and register participants. Plus, get new field-tested recreational and discussion activities and online supplemental materials that are easy to print and photocopy.