Illness: Supporting Siblings When One Is Sick
When a child gets sick, it affects the whole family. Parents often spend a lot of time and energy caring for the sick child, and other children in the family—known as siblings—might begin to feel left out, worried, or even confused. It's important for parents and caregivers to provide comfort and support to siblings when one child falls ill. This helps maintain the family's balance and ensures that siblings feel loved and understood during a challenging time.
In this blog, we’ll share simple ways to support siblings when one child is sick.
How Illness Affects Siblings
Siblings often experience a lot of emotions when a brother or sister is sick. Depending on their age and understanding of the situation, they may feel:
- Worried: They might be scared that their sibling is very sick or may not get better.
- Jealous: They may notice that the sick sibling gets extra attention, gifts, or visits from relatives and might feel overlooked.
- Confused: Younger siblings might not fully understand what is happening or why plans are changing.
- Lonely: If parents are spending long hours with the sick child, siblings may feel neglected.
- Guilty: Some siblings feel bad for wishing they had more attention or might even blame themselves for their sibling’s illness.
It’s normal for siblings to have these feelings, but they may not always know how to express them. That’s why parents and caregivers need to help them manage these emotions and provide reassurance.
Tips for Supporting Siblings
Here are some simple and effective ways to support siblings when one child is sick:
1. Be Honest (But Keep It Simple)
Talk openly with siblings about the illness in a way they can understand. Avoid using complicated medical terms. For example, you can say, “Your sister is sick and needs extra care right now to get better.” Share what you can about the situation, such as how long you expect it to last and what kind of help the sick sibling might need.
Answer their questions honestly. If the illness is long-term or serious, it’s okay to explain that there are doctors and nurses working hard to help their sibling. Transparency builds trust.
2. Acknowledge Their Feelings
Let siblings know that their feelings matter. If they say they feel sad, jealous, or worried, don’t dismiss those emotions. Instead, say, “I understand why you feel that way. It’s okay to feel like this.” You might even ask questions like, “How are you feeling about everything going on?” This shows them that their emotions are important.
3. Spend One-on-One Time Together
Even if your schedule is busier than usual, try to set aside time for the siblings. It doesn’t have to be a big outing—it could be something as simple as playing a game, reading a book, or watching their favorite TV show. Giving siblings individual attention helps reassure them that they’re still loved and valued.
If this is difficult, consider asking a trusted family member or friend to help. Someone they trust could spend time with them, take them to the park, or help with homework.
4. Encourage Them to Help
Siblings often feel powerless when someone in the family is sick. Invite them to help in small ways, such as making a “get well soon” card, helping prepare food for the sick sibling, or simply keeping the house clean. Helping can make them feel involved and useful, rather than sidelined.
Explain that their role is important, even if it’s not as direct as yours. For instance, you could say, “Taking care of your brother is my job, but helping with little things makes a big difference too!”
5. Keep Their Routine Stable
Whenever possible, try to maintain the siblings’ usual routines. If they have school, sports, or hobbies, make an effort to keep those activities going. Familiar routines create a sense of stability and normalcy, even during tough times.
If you need to cancel or change plans, explain the situation beforehand to avoid surprises.
6. Use Books and Stories to Explain Illness
If siblings are younger, teaching them about illness through books can be helpful. There are many children’s books designed to explain sickness and hospitalization in a way kids can understand. Reading these stories together can make the topic feel less scary and encourage siblings to ask questions.
7. Celebrate Small Moments Together
If the family is going through a tough time, it’s still important to celebrate everyday joys with siblings. This could be something simple, like treating them to their favorite dessert, letting them stay up a little later, or even giving them a small compliment or hug. These small gestures remind siblings that they’re valued, even during challenging situations.
Take Care of Yourself, Too
As a parent or caregiver, you’re likely juggling a lot—taking care of the sick child, comforting siblings, and managing daily responsibilities. It’s important to take care of yourself, too. When you’re well-rested and calm, it’s easier to support both your sick child and their siblings.
Try to lean on your support system during this time. Whether it’s a relative, friend, or neighbor, don’t be afraid to ask for help with meals, errands, or childcare.
Final Thoughts
Illness can be hard on everyone in the family, not just the person who’s sick. By being honest, listening to feelings, and providing reassurance, you can help siblings feel supported and loved during this time. Remember, small acts of care can make a big difference in helping siblings cope and stay positive.
Families grow stronger when they work together, and with understanding and patience, siblings can learn valuable lessons about compassion and resilience.