Support Groups for Siblings

If she could wish for anything different in her own childhood as a young sibling with a disabled brother, Gerri Zatlow wishes that she had the opportunity to talk to other siblings like her. Support groups for young siblings can be a good way to build knowledge, encourage discussion and develop a support network that can last well beyond siblings' early years, says researcher and author Debra Lobato. They are also a place for kids to have fun. Lobato runs workshops where siblings ages four to seven can meet other siblings, play together and learn about the disabilities in their families. Looking for sibling groups in your area? Contact Don Meyer, Director of the Sibling Support Project at:

CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER P.O. Box 5371, CL-09
Seattle, WA 98105
206-368-4911
fax: 206-368-4816
e-mail: dmeyer@chmc.org

Or look for his book, SIBSHOPS (Donald Meyer and Patricia Vadasy; published by Paul H. Brookes, Baltimore, 1994) a guide to organizing and running your own sibling support groups for ages 3 to 13.