Growing Up Together: Siblings and Autism

About this episode

Natalie and Victoria discuss the complexities of raising siblings with different needs, focusing on sibling dynamics and the unique challenges faced in these relationships.

In this episode, Natalie and Victoria talk about raising siblings who have different needs. Key Takeaways How sibling dynamics shift over time, especially as children reach their teens The unique challenges that come with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) in sibling relationships Why it's important to let siblings just be siblings, rather than stepping into a co-parenting role Sensory clashes between siblings — when one child's coping mechanism is another's trigger Explaining autism to younger siblings in an age-appropriate way How to handle meltdowns when both children need you at the same time Fairness vs. equality — why "everyone gets what they need" is a more helpful frame than equal treatment The importance of one-on-one time and separate activities for each child Mentioned in This Episode Wonderfully Wired Brains: An Introduction to the World of Neurodiversity An informative and inclusive children's guide to neurodiversity for those not in the know and to inspire children who are neurodivergent. MyTime Young Carers — weekly online activities and events for siblings of disabled children Sibs — UK charity dedicated to supporting brothers and sisters of disabled people Young…

People in this episode

Hosts: Natalie Tealdi, Victoria Bennion

Topics covered

• sibling dynamics
• PDA in sibling relationships
• co-parenting roles
• sensory clashes
• explaining autism
• handling meltdowns
• fairness vs equality

Keywords

• siblings
• autism
• PDA
• neurodiversity
• meltdowns
• co-parenting
• sensory issues

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: MyTime Young Carers, Sibs, Carers Trust, Sense

Books & works: Wonderfully Wired Brains: An Introduction to the World of Neurodiversity

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