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This is a review of the book Siblings of Children With Autism: Guide for Families, by Sandra Harris, Ph.D., published by Woodbine House, 1994. The content of the book examines how to explain autism to children, helping children share thoughts and feelings, and helping children play together. The author provides practical ideas for addressing and coping with the typical challenges experienced by families of children with autism. Additionally, the author presents a chapter about parents taking care of their marriage. The book is short (something much appreciated by our readers), easy to read, and written in a conversation style. The author also provides first hand accounts written by siblings and parents. I recommend the book as a reference guide for parents who have questions about the impact a child with autism has on his or her sibling. The book is relatively inexpensive (yes, some things can be affordable), and you can ask for it at your local book store. Happy reading!
SUGGESTION: Often times, I am asked by parents what the emotional impact is on siblings of children with autism. One way parents can find out first hand is to hold regularly scheduled weekly meetings with their children. These Family Meetings can start out to be no more than fifteen minutes long. I find that once family members become comfortable with the format, they begin to look forward to the time together. The Family Meeting is a safe place where family members can share their feelings (positive or negative), problem-solve, share information, and connect with one another. The family creates the rules for a Family Meeting.
Often these rules include:
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