At TinyEYE, we are committed to using data-driven approaches to improve the outcomes for children receiving online therapy services. One key area of focus is the support provided by siblings to children with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDD). A recent scoping review titled Programs to Prepare Siblings for Future Roles to Support Their Brother or Sister with a Neurodevelopmental Disability: a Scoping Review offers valuable insights into how practitioners can enhance their skills and encourage further research in this area.
According to the review, there are several programs designed to prepare siblings for their roles in supporting their brothers or sisters with NDD. These programs generally aim to:
- Provide information about NDD
- Create communities for siblings to connect and share experiences
- Connect siblings to resources and services
The review analyzed 58 articles covering 54 sibling programs from 11 countries, involving 1033 sibling participants aged 4 to 67 years. The programs were divided into two main categories:
- Programs focused on knowledge acquisition and skill development for siblings
- Programs aimed at empowering siblings to teach skills to their sibling with NDD
Key Findings
Programs focused on knowledge acquisition and skill development generally resulted in increased understanding of NDD, improved coping skills, and enhanced self-esteem among siblings. However, some studies noted that these benefits were not always maintained at follow-up.
Programs aimed at empowering siblings to teach skills to their sibling with NDD were found to be effective in enhancing positive social behaviors, communication skills, and self-care abilities. These programs often included role-playing, video modeling, and interactive discussions to teach siblings how to apply specific skills.
Recommendations for Practitioners
Based on the findings, practitioners can take the following steps to improve their skills and support siblings of children with NDD:
- Incorporate knowledge-based programs to provide siblings with a comprehensive understanding of NDD
- Develop and implement skill-building activities that focus on practical applications
- Create opportunities for siblings to connect and share their experiences, fostering a sense of community and support
- Engage siblings as co-developers or facilitators in these programs to ensure they are tailored to meet their needs
Encouraging Further Research
While the review highlights the effectiveness of existing programs, it also points to the need for further research in several areas:
- Long-term impacts of sibling support programs
- Involvement of siblings as co-developers and facilitators
- Effectiveness of online and hybrid program delivery methods
- Programs available in low- and middle-income countries
By focusing on these areas, practitioners can contribute to the development of more effective and sustainable sibling support programs, ultimately leading to better outcomes for children with NDD.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Programs to Prepare Siblings for Future Roles to Support Their Brother or Sister with a Neurodevelopmental Disability: a Scoping Review.
