Sibshops are an exciting program just for brothers and sisters of children with special needs.  Sibshops are best described as opportunities for brothers and sisters of children with special health and developmental needs to obtain peer support and education within a recreational context.  They support the family member most likely to have the longest-lasting relationship with the person with special needs. 

Sibshops are not therapy, group or otherwise, although their effort may be therapeutic for some children.  Sibshops acknowledge that most brothers and sisters of people with special needs, like their parents, are doing well, despite the challenges of an illness or disability of a loved one.  Consequently, while Sibshop facilitators always keep an eye open for participants who may need additional services, the Sibshop model takes a wellness approach only.

A length of a typical Sibshop runs for 4 hours.  Within this timeframe, Sibs have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that help promote confidence, team/relationship building, and an understanding of oneself.  Most importantly, they get to have fun with other kids, similar in age, who are living with comparable situations in their home. 

For more information contact: 

Stefani Waterman
Sibshop Collaborative of the North East Facilitator
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Click here to download an enrollment forms.