Children with Medical Complexity & the Sibling Experience
Learning Objectives
- To review theoretical groundings that help us better understand the family systems and relationships within the family
- Discuss the unique challenges experienced among siblings of children with medical complexity
- Explore strategies to support the sibling experience of children with medical complexity
- To offer space to hear the voices and perspectives of siblings
- Differentiate appropriate response to a complex and difficult situation and need for additional assessment/intervention
- Acknowledge the work that is actively occurring around supporting siblings
- To create space to ask questions, discuss and think about siblings of children with medical complexity, from different lenses
Ashley Edwards, MSW, Registered Social Worker, Hospital of Sick Children
Ashley Edwards, MSW, RSW, is a Social Worker at the Hospital for Sick Children. Ashley completed her Social Work education at the University of Waterloo and the University of Toronto. Ashley is passionate about family mental health (child, sibling, parent/caregiver), accessibility/inclusion, lifelong learning and the sibling relationship, particularly in families with children with chronic health conditions.
Resources Mentioned in Session
- Children’s Perspectives on Living with a Sibling with a Chronic Illness
- “Ollie and the Otter”
- “When Wishes Come True”
- “The Invisible String”
- “The Color Monster”
- Sibshops – Workshops for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
- “This is a Moose”
- “We’re All Wonders”
- “Teddy Bear of the Year”
- “Relax Kids” The Wishing Star”
- “Ellie”
Session Materials
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