Don’t forget the siblings  

When a child is sick, the family’s whole world reorganises around that child. Understandably so. But in the middle of hospital appointments, treatment schedules and sleepless nights, there are often other children in that home quietly navigating something enormous, without much of the spotlight. 

The siblings of a sick child need support too. Not instead of, but as well as. 

As part of the crew around that family, this is one of the most meaningful things you can do. 

What siblings are often feeling 

They may not have the words for it, but siblings of sick children are frequently dealing with: 

• Fear for their brother or sister 
• Confusion about what is happening and why 
• Guilt for feeling normal things like boredom or frustration 
• Loneliness, especially if parents are stretched thin 
• Disrupted routines, school life and friendships 
• A sense that their needs come second right now 

It’s completely normal for them to feel this way. And you can help by showing up consistently for them. 

How to show up for the siblings 

• Include them in your own family days out 
• Help keep after school activities and weekend routines running as normally as possible 
• Offer to do school runs, help with homework, and wash uniforms 
• Have them over for dinner, a sleepover, or a playdate 
• Offer to do some household chores to free up time for the parents to spend with the other kids 
• If the parents can’t make it to the footy pitch, dance recital or school production, be their stand in. Cheer, applaud, take pictures 

If you’re part of this family’s crew, letting the parents know you are specifically looking out for their other children is a gift. It is one less thing for them to worry about.  

Remember, consistency matters. Showing up regularly and reliably is everything.