Raising a child with disability can be incredibly rewarding, but it also presents unique challenges, particularly when balancing the needs of the whole family.

Parents and carers raising a child with disability often have a lot on their plate, making it challenging to address the needs of their other children. It’s natural to feel concerned about their emotional well-being and to want to ensure that every child feels supported and valued.

Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. If you’re feeling uncertain about where to start or how to manage these challenges, Kiind, along with a network of organisations, is here to offer the support you need.

Here are some practical and compassionate ways to prioritise your other children’s well-being:

Connect with other siblings

Connecting with others who share similar experiences can help siblings feel less alone and foster a sense of belonging. Sibling connections can happen informally through family networks or organisations such as Siblings Australia, Carers WA, and Headspace. These organisations offer programs and activities designed for siblings and provide opportunities to make friends, share experiences, and build a support network.

Encourage independent social networks

Encourage siblings to pursue their interests and build friendships outside of their family role. Participating in activities like sports, music, art, or social clubs helps foster independence, confidence, and identity. These opportunities also allow siblings to connect with peers who share similar experiences and learn valuable life skills.

Spend dedicated one-on-one time

Set aside time to connect individually with each of your children. Whether it’s a casual chat, a shared activity, or a simple outing, one-on-one time shows them they are seen, heard, and valued. Involve extended family members, like grandparents or aunts and uncles, in creating these meaningful connections.

Help build resilience

Equip siblings with tools to handle challenging situations, such as teasing or misunderstandings from peers. Peer support groups, like Siblings Australia’s SibWorks and Carers WA Young Carers Peer Support Groups, provide safe spaces to ask questions, build confidence, and develop practical skills to handle tough situations.

Foster open and honest communication

Honest and open communication about your child’s disability can help your children better understand family dynamics. Encourage them to ask questions and share their feelings. Creating a safe space for these conversations builds trust and teaches the value of expressing emotions and concerns.

Collaborate with schools and teachers

Keeping educators informed about your family’s situation helps them provide the right support. Regular communication ensures teachers are aware of any challenges and can offer understanding and assistance when needed. This partnership helps your children thrive both academically and emotionally.

Explore recreational opportunities

Participate in activities designed for siblings and young carers. Kiind’s What’s on activity and event guide is a great resource for discovering free or low-cost events across WA. From creative workshops to fun outings, you’ll find activities that bring joy and connection to the whole family. Subscribe to our weekly What’s on newsletter to stay informed about the latest opportunities.


Supporting siblings of children with disability is an important part of fostering a happy, healthy family dynamic. At Kiind, we’re here to walk alongside you, offering guidance and resources every step of the way.

For additional support, explore our Useful Organisations Directory which lists programs for peer support, counselling, activities, and more. Our team of Peer Navigators also provides free, personalised Pathway Planning sessions to help your family navigate challenges and access the support you need.

Click here to book a Pathway Planning session with our team.

Together, we can help every member of your family feel seen, valued, and supported.