Siblings and autism
Siblings of children with autism can consciously or unconsciously provide a lot of support to brothers or sisters with autism and other family members.
Recent research has looked into evidence that siblings of children with autism may have an increased chance of being autistic themselves. Some professionals advise that even where siblings are not autistic themselves they can still demonstrate some of the same characteristics as their autistic siblings. If the siblings are demonstrating these traits you may want to consult a professional. Typically developing siblings, may, also require support themselves at different times through the family’s journey.
The impact of autism on siblings, however, may not always be negative and research shows that some siblings either experience no effects or demonstrate positive effects such as increased social competence from having a sibling with autism.
Perspectives from siblings
Far too often, professionals fail to fully involve families in the education and care of children with additional needs. This is despite the fact that parents and siblings are often the true experts in the lives of their sons, daughters brothers or sisters. Not only is such experience and knowledge overlooked, but parents and siblings do not receive the kind of consistent support and advice that ensures positive outcomes for their families. Any information that does exist is rarely available in targeted and accessible formats. This is an additional barrier in a society that already has negative perceptions of autism, learning disability and other developmental delays.
Saba Salman, Guardian journalist, editor of Made Possible
I really like teaching my brother to play. Its not always easy as he wants to do other things.
Perspective of a young sibling
The realisation that my brother saw the world in a different light came slowly to my parents, but there were small clues along the way. As we learnt about autism, the society learnt as well. I am certain that my mother lived in fear about what would happen to him, how would he get on. But now, at the age of 34, he’s well-known in the community. Most people don’t take advantage of him, and treat him with extraordinary understanding. And that I think is a message that might be given to the parents of many young autistic people today, that society will continue to gain a better understanding of autism and fully embrace our children for who they are.
Perspective of an adult sibling
