MY INTRODUCTION INCLUDED THE WORDS “I hope the ideas in this book will help build links between siblings, between parents and siblings, and finally, between practitioners and families.” Those links will be forged, however, only if families and practitioners are prepared to raise awareness of sibling needs and advocate for support.
If you are an adult sibling, try to talk to other siblings about your experiences, both the good and the not-so-good ones. Become more involved in the organization that supports your brother or sister. Investigate the possibility of becoming involved in a sibling program, either with other adult siblings or with children. E-mail me your story. Let me know your response to this book.
If you are a parent, check whether the disability organization that supports you provides a sibling program or can direct you to one. If not, tell them about the growing network of parents, providers, and siblings who are working to develop more support services. I have listed some organizations in the resources section of this book.
As a practitioner, spread the word about sibling issues among your colleagues. Encourage collaboration between different agencies that have a focus on preventative mental health, disability, or education. Share your work with others. It is important that we all work to keep family and sibling support on the agenda.