Siblings of People with Disabilities

Reflecting the dramatic advances in research in the 10 years since the second edition was published, this book gives readers the most up-to-date information on genetics and heredity, expanded discussion of multicultural issues and financial planning, and an extended focus on family members beyond parents, including grandparents and other extended family members who interact with siblings. Brimming with inspiring stories, facts and wisdom from the literature, and practical advice to share with parents, this book will help you and the families you work with understand and celebrate the special bond between siblings.

Jacqui Jackson has seven children. Luke (author of Freaks, Geeks and Asperger Syndrome) has Asperger Syndrome, Joe has ADHD, and Ben has autism. Life is anything but straightforward, but the chaos of the Jacksons' lives is threaded through with humor and common sense. Full of anecdotes and lively thinking, the book explains vividly what it is like to parent young people with such a range of conditions, and provides a wealth of helpful and creative advice for other parents and carers. Anyone who has wondered what life in such a family might be like will be fascinated.

The two mothers speak openly about their children’s diagnosis and early childhood through to adolescence, young adulthood and the day they leave home. They give a moving account of the challenges they faced and the surprising consolations they found along their sons’ very different paths in life. Through their friendship and two decades of shared experiences of parenting an ASD child, each has gained a clear understanding of her own strengths and limitations, as well as those of her child.

This revised and updated edition takes a fresh look at what it's like to grow up as the brother or sister of a child with autism--the basics of sibling relationships at all ages and how autism can affect these dynamics. Parents get important advice about balancing responsibilities for each child, encouraging their kids to share feelings, explaining autism to other children, and initiating play and interaction between siblings.

An infant's NICU stay is a high-stress time for both parents and siblings—and now there's a book that shows professionals how to make the entire family's NICU experience easier by addressing the needs of big brothers and sisters of all ages. The first and only guide to supporting siblings of infants in the NICU, this landmark resource helps clinicians, child life specialists, social workers, and other professionals guide parents as they provide their older children with accurate information during a high-risk pregnancy; discuss the new baby's NICU stay with siblings in sensitive, age-appropriate ways; encourage siblings to celebrate the baby's birth with activities like photo books and journals; and more.