Having an autistic sibling can be a very positive experience. People often talk about how much they have learnt from their autistic sibling's unique perspective on life, including valuing diversity.

However, there can also be challenges. Parents may often need to spend more time with an autistic child, and their siblings may feel ignored or resentful. If an autistic child shows distressed behaviour, their siblings may also find this difficult to understand or upsetting to witness.

Supporting siblings

Talking to your children about autism can help them understand their autistic siblings’ differences, strengths and needs. Sometimes siblings of autistic children also benefit from having a trusted adult outside of their immediate family they can confide in. Some schools run Young Carers groups, which can help to create a sense of community and support. 

Support for adult carers

As an adult, brothers or sisters may take on even more responsibility and sometimes become the main carers for their autistic sibling. This may be a challenge to manage alongside other responsibilities. Each local area will have a Carer’s Support Service, which should include a young carers service as well as support for adult sibling carers. The charity Sibs also has useful information and advice. 

You can find more information on support for siblings by clicking on the links below.