The Effects on Siblings of Autistic Children
If you are a frequent reader of A Wild Ride, you know that Mary and I are speaking at the Momference Webinar on April 26th. Our topic: Special Needs and Sibling Rivalry.
In my research for this topic, I came across an excellent piece on Life Happens by Donna Mason. Donna gave me permission to share it with our readers.
The Effects on Siblings of Autistic Children
Oftentimes it is true that the child that makes the most noise, gets the most attention. This is true in a lot of families and moreso in families with children with Autism. Autistic children also require a lot more time and attention. In a family with more than one autistic child, it is doubly so. This could lead to a greater risk of sibling rivalry. Not for the challenges usually associated with these words but for attention. With the care that Autistic children need, it would be easy for the unaffected child in the family to get a little lost in the shuffle.
Over time, this could lead to the unaffected child feeling resentful of their Autistic siblings and to begin a little attention getting of their own or behaviors.
In time, the stress involved with this internal family conflict could lead to a rift that may take a lifetime to heal. There are several methods to deal with this potential problem before it gets out of hand.
Donna suggests the following:
1. Set aside parent alone time for the sibling of an Autistic child.
2. Hire a sitter or ask a friend or family member to watch over the Autistic child during this time.
3. Reassure the unaffected sibling that they are going to get a share of you time.
4. It important that you keep your appointment with the child.
5. The outing doesn't have to be anything spectacular, just something that the two of you can share. It can be done with one parent at a time or with both.
For more suggestions, visit Donna's site Life Happens.
From Donna's site: Life Happens is about life dealing with Autism. I have three children with Autism and three children who don't have Autism. This is how we deal with day to day living and getting by. Different treatments for Autism,ADHD,Mental Retardation and their effectiveness.
Comments
Hello, I am glad that you found this article worthy of note. From my reading, it appears that you have your hands full too.
I am glad that you too use humour to get through the day. I think that it certainly helps.
I would love to exchange links with you. Please email me if you are interested.
Regards and warm wishes,
Donna
Posted by: Donna Mason | April 12, 2008 12:10 PM