Sibling Involvement in Therapy – From Distraction to Enhancement

By: Danielle Waters, MA CCC-SLP

For many parents, the idea of bringing more than one child to a therapy session can feel overwhelming. You may picture chaos, distractions, or added stress. But when done intentionally, involving siblings can turn what feels like a challenge into a meaningful advantage—for everyone.

Why Sibling Participation Matters

Siblings already know your child in ways therapists never fully can: their favorite games, what makes them laugh, and how to encourage them when they’re frustrated. When siblings participate in therapy in small, structured ways, it can:

• Boost motivation: Children often try harder when a brother or sister is cheering them on or participating alongside them.

• Encourage imitation: Kids naturally copy their siblings. A sibling can demonstrate a skill or behavior, making it easier for your child to understand and follow along.

• Improve carryover at home: When siblings learn strategies during therapy, they can support practice during everyday routines—playtime, mealtime, or even during car rides.

• Strengthen their bond: Working together toward small goals fosters teamwork and positive interactions, helping both children feel more connected.

Making Sibling Involvement Successful

Parents don’t need to bring siblings to every session. Even occasional participation can make a difference. Here are some simple ways siblings can be involved without overwhelming the session:

• Special helper roles: Siblings can be the “game chooser,” “card holder,” or “materials helper.”

• Modeling and turn-taking: Let siblings demonstrate a skill or take turns in an activity so the child in therapy can watch and learn.

• Short, focused participation: Involve siblings for the first or last 10 minutes to keep the session calm and purposeful.

• Positive reinforcement: Therapists can teach siblings simple ways to praise or encourage their brother or sister, helping everyone feel successful.

Supporting Siblings Emotionally

Brothers and sisters of children with disabilities often face their own unique challenges. Research consistently shows that siblings of children with disabilities experience a complex range of emotions. They may experience confusion, jealousy, resentment or anxiety, but at the same time develop empathy, patience and advocacy skills. Many siblings take great pride in being a “helper,” and this can boost their confidence and sense of belonging. Growing up with a sibling who has special needs often teaches kids to be more patient and understanding. Sometimes, these experiences even inspire them to choose helping professions when they’re older.

The Big Picture

When siblings are thoughtfully included, therapy becomes more than a weekly appointment—it becomes a family experience that builds connection, empathy, and shared progress. Siblings can pick up helpful strategies for interacting with their brother or sister, which can make their time together at home more positive and connected. Instead of being a distraction, siblings can be one of the most powerful tools in helping your child grow.

Talk with your child’s SLP, PT, or OT about involving siblings in therapeutic sessions so they feel included and proud of the support they can provide their brother or sister. This not only strengthens their lifelong bond, but also creates fun, meaningful memories they can share together. And who knows—being part of the process might even inspire a future career interest for them!