2. Five Effective Ways to Support Siblings of Chronically Ill Children

In the previous post, we looked at how siblings of chronically ill children are affected. Now, we will focus on specific ways parents, healthcare professionals, and others can support these important family members.

Here are five research-based strategies to help siblings cope with the situation they are facing:

1. Open and honest communication

Research shows that good communication is key to siblings' adjustment. As Houtzager et al. (2001) point out:

"Improving the child or young person's understanding of the sibling's condition has been linked to reduced anxiety levels."

Tips:

• Provide age-appropriate information about the illness and treatment.
• Encourage siblings to ask questions and share their concerns.
• Be honest about the situation while maintaining hope where it is realistic.

Houtzager, B. A., Oort, F. J., Hoekstra-Weebers, J. E. H. M., Caron, H. N., Grootenhuis, M. A., & Last, B. F. (2001). Coping and family functioning predict longitudinal psychological adaptation of siblings of childhood cancer patients. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 26(6), 347-357.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15491981/

2. Inclusion in the care process

Allowing siblings to participate in the care of the sick child can increase their sense of control and competence. Vermaes et al. (2012) found that siblings who were involved in care reported a higher quality of life.

Tips:

• Let siblings help with simple tasks appropriate for their age.
• Acknowledge their contributions and importance within the family team.
• Be also mindful that some siblings may feel overwhelmed by too much responsibility.

Vermaes, I. P. R., Van Susante, A. M. J., & Van Bakel, H. J. A. (2012). Psychological functioning of siblings in families of children with chronic health conditions: A meta-analysis. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 37(2), 166-184.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22044867/

3. Maintaining normal routines

Giallo and Gavidia-Payne (2008) emphasize the importance of maintaining normalcy in the lives of siblings:

Tips:

• Keep regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and family activities as much as possible.
• Encourage siblings to continue with their hobbies and friendships.
• Celebrate siblings' achievements and milestones.

Giallo, R., & Gavidia-Payne, S. (2008). Child, parent and family factors as predictors of adjustment for siblings of children with a disability. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 52(12), 1048-1062.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2788.2008.01042.x

4. Providing Emotional Support

Siblings need to feel seen and heard. Lobato and Kao (2002) found that siblings who received emotional support showed better adjustment.

Tips:

• Schedule regular one-on-one time with each sibling.
• Validate their feelings, even the "negative" ones like jealousy or anger.
• Consider professional support such as therapy or support groups if needed.

Lobato, D. J., & Kao, B. T. (2002). Integrated sibling-parent group intervention to improve sibling knowledge and adjustment to chronic illness and disability. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 27(8), 711-716.
https://doi.org/10.1093/jpepsy/27.8.711

5. Promoting Resilience and Coping Strategies

Helping siblings develop effective coping strategies can enhance their resilience. As Cebula (2012) points out, this can have long-lasting positive effects.

Tips:

• Teach problem-solving techniques and stress management skills.
• Encourage physical activity and creative forms of expression.
• Help siblings identify their strengths and build on them.

Cebula, K. R. (2012). Applied behavior analysis programs for children with autism: Sibling psychosocial adjustment during and following intervention use. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 42(5), 847-862.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-011-1322-x

Bonus: Community Support

Sidhu et al. (2006) found that support groups and camps for siblings can have a significantly positive effect.

Consider:

• Exploring options for sibling support groups in your area.
• Informing the school about the sibling's situation and any needs for accommodation.
• Connecting siblings with others in similar situations to share experiences.

Sidhu, R., Passmore, A., & Baker, D. (2006). The effectiveness of a support group for siblings of children with autism: A pilot study. Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities, 18(1), 93-102.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10882-006-9005-4

By implementing these strategies, we can provide siblings of chronically ill children with the support they need to thrive despite the challenges they face.

Remember: Every family and every sibling is unique. What works for one may not work for another. Be flexible and attentive to individual needs.

In the next post, we will take a closer look at resilience in siblings and how they cope with the challenges they encounter. Stay tuned!

//Stay strong, and rock on!
//Stig