Siblings of autistic individuals often face similar challenges and stressors, from childhood to adult roles as advocate and potentially caretaker. OAR’s autism sibling support resources provide information that can help. These resources are available online for free and two copies of each can be mailed free as well.
Autism, My Sibling, and Me
Tailored towards younger children with autistic siblings, this fun and engaging workbook is perfect for children between the ages of 5 and 10. A host of colorful cartoon characters accompany readers and listeners as they learn about what autism means for their brother or sister and how to handle potentially stressful issues. Through activities and supportive content, this resource also helps children work through many of the autism-related questions they may have.
Life as an Autism Sibling: A Guide for Teens
This handbook for teenage (and even pre-teen) siblings offers guidance on how to productively address feelings and challenges that may arise. The resource covers a variety of topics, from explaining autism to friends and peers to coping with a family dynamic that’s different from what friends may experience. It also features testimonials from other teenage and young adult siblings who have “been there, done that.”
Brothers, Sisters, and Autism: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Siblings
This guide focuses on what parents can do to support children who do not have an autism diagnosis. Topics range from dealing with perceived discrepancies fairly to facilitating a positive relationship between siblings. The guide also includes testimonials from families who have an autistic family member and deal with similar issues. It can be read from start to finish or used as a reference tool to troubleshoot problems as they arise.
If you have any questions, want to learn more about OAR’s autism sibling support resources, or have ideas about how to expand program offerings in this important area, please e-mail programs @researchautism.org.
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