Sibling Spotlight

Sibling Spotlight is a unique program designed specifically for siblings of children with autism, rare disorders, and developmental delays. It provides a safe, supportive, and fun environment where siblings can connect with peers who share similar experiences. Through engaging activities and mentorship opportunities, the program aims to foster a healthy support system, build coping skills, and celebrate the important role siblings play in their families. By participating, siblings not only form meaningful relationships but also gain tools to navigate their journey with confidence and resilience.

Who Should Participate?

Sibling Spotlight is open to children and teens ages 6 through 18 who have a sibling with autism, rare disorders, or developmental delays.
Ages 6–11: These participants engage in fun, age-appropriate activities designed to help them build connections, develop coping skills, and share their experiences in a supportive environment.

Ages 12–18: These older siblings participate as mentors, developing leadership skills by supporting younger participants under the guidance of our program facilitators.

What types of activities are included in the program?

Sibling Spotlight offers a variety of fun, engaging, and meaningful activities designed to support siblings as they navigate their unique roles in their families. These activities focus on building connections, developing coping skills, and fostering personal growth. Examples include:
• Team-Building Games: Activities that encourage collaboration, problem-solving, and bonding among participants.
• Creative Projects: Arts and crafts, storytelling, and other creative outlets to help siblings express their thoughts and emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
• Community Outings: Facilitator-led neighborhood excursions within walking distance of the ISAAC Foundation, offering participants opportunities to explore and engage with their community.
• Leadership Development Activities: For sibling mentors (ages 12–18), tasks that focus on guiding younger participants, building confidence, and honing leadership skills.
• Reflection and Discussion: Group conversations that allow siblings to share their experiences, celebrate successes, and develop strategies for navigating challenges.
• Recreational Fun: Active and structured play to promote relaxation, enjoyment, and peer connection.

How does the program benefit siblings of children with autism, rare disorders, and developmental delays?

The Sibling Spotlight program provides a unique opportunity for siblings to receive the recognition, support, and tools they need to navigate the challenges and joys of having a sibling with special needs. Key benefits of the program include:
• Peer Connections:
Siblings can connect with peers who share similar experiences, helping them realize they are not alone. These connections foster a sense of belonging and provide a supportive network.
• Emotional Support:
The program creates a safe space for siblings to express their feelings, such as frustration, guilt, or jealousy, without fear of judgment. This emotional outlet helps siblings process their emotions in healthy ways.
• Coping Skills Development:
Through activities and discussions, siblings learn strategies to manage the complexities of their family dynamics, reduce stress, and build resilience.
• Leadership and Confidence Building:
Older participants serving as mentors gain valuable leadership skills that enhance their confidence and sense of responsibility. These skills are not only applicable in the program but also benefit them in school, college, and future careers.
• Recognition of Their Role:
Sibling Spotlight celebrates the important contributions that siblings make within their families. This recognition can boost self-esteem and affirm their value as individuals.
• Improved Family Relationships:
By gaining insight into their sibling’s challenges and learning how to communicate effectively, participants often experience stronger relationships within their families.
• Fun and Relaxation:
Engaging in creative, recreational, and community-based activities provides siblings with a chance to have fun, explore their interests, and enjoy a break from their caregiving roles.

Sibling Spotlight FAQs

Are the activities therapeutic or purely recreational?
The activities in Sibling Spotlight are a blend of therapeutic and recreational elements, designed to provide both emotional support and enjoyable experiences for participants.

How are activities adapted for different age groups and abilities?
Sibling Spotlight is designed to be inclusive and accommodating, ensuring that all participants, regardless of their age or abilities, can fully engage and benefit from the program. Here’s how activities are tailored:
• Age-Appropriate Design:
Ages 6–11: Activities focus on playful learning, teamwork, and skill-building through fun, hands-on experiences.
Ages 12–18: Older participants take on leadership roles as mentors, engaging in activities that develop their confidence, leadership skills, and ability to support younger siblings.
• Ability-Based Adaptations:
Activities are adapted as needed to ensure that everyone can participate successfully. This may include breaking tasks into smaller steps, providing additional support or guidance, or offering alternative ways to engage.
• Flexibility and Inclusion:
Activities are structured to be flexible, with options for participants to choose how they’d like to engage. This ensures that all siblings feel comfortable and valued, regardless of their unique strengths and challenges.
• Facilitator and Mentor Support:
Our trained facilitator, Roni Gross, and sibling mentors are available to provide individualized support during activities. They help create an inclusive and welcoming environment, ensuring that all participants feel confident and capable.

Can parents stay and observe the sessions?
Parents are encouraged to allow their children to fully engage in Sibling Spotlight independently. The program is designed to create a space where siblings can connect with peers, mentors, and the facilitator in an environment that fosters openness, autonomy, and trust.

How can parents support their children at home with the skills learned in the program?
Encourage Open Communication, Validate Their Feelings, Practice Skills Together, Foster Independence, Engage in Family Activities, Model Positive Behavior, & Stay Informed

What if my child has special dietary needs or allergies?
If your child has dietary restrictions or allergies, please indicate this clearly on the Sibling Spotlight Enrollment Form. This information helps us ensure that snacks provided are safe for your child.

What happens if a session is canceled?
If a session is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, such as inclement weather or facilitator illness, we will make every effort to reschedule the session at a later date. Families will be informed of the new date and time once it has been confirmed.