Supporting siblings, building friendships and having fun!
Sibshops are fun, interactive workshops for brothers and sisters of children with additional needs. They provide a relaxed and supportive environment where siblings can meet other children who share similar experiences, make new friends and enjoy time together.
Having a brother or sister with additional needs can bring many wonderful experiences, as well as some unique challenges. Siblings often share many of the joys and concerns experienced by their parents, but may have fewer opportunities to meet others in similar situations and talk openly about their feelings.
Sibshops give siblings the opportunity to feel understood, valued and supported — while having lots of fun along the way!
What happens at a Sibshop?
Our Sibshop workshops are lively, engaging sessions lasting approximately 2½ hours. Activities may include:
- Fun games and group activities.
- Opportunities to meet other siblings and make new friends.
- Informal discussions about the positive experiences and challenges of having a brother or sister with additional needs.
- Sharing experiences in a friendly, understanding environment.
- Enjoyable activities such as preparing snacks or making pizzas together.
The workshops encourage children to share as much or as little as they feel comfortable with. The aim is to help them realise that they are not alone and that other children have similar experiences.
Who can attend?
Sibshops organised by the Down Syndrome Ireland Louth Meath Branch are for siblings aged 7–13 years of children with Down syndrome.
To help children understand and relate to their sibling’s additional needs, their brother or sister with Down syndrome should be over 2½ years of age.
Group sizes are limited to ensure that every child has an opportunity to participate, contribute and enjoy the activities.
Who runs the workshops?
Our Sibshop workshops are facilitated by Liz Fitzpatrick and Linda Foley from Sibshop Ireland, both nurses who work with children with an intellectual disability. They are qualified Sibshop facilitators with experience in providing supportive and enjoyable experiences for siblings.
Cost
Sibshops are free for eligible families who are members of Down Syndrome Ireland Louth Meath Branch.
Get in touch
We recognise that siblings are an important part of the family too. Through Sibshops, we aim to give them the opportunity to connect with others, share experiences, build friendships and enjoy an afternoon dedicated to them.
For information about upcoming Sibshop workshops or to register your interest, please contact:
Down Syndrome Ireland Louth Meath Branch
Email: info@louthmeath.downsyndrome.ie or phone/text Brendan at 083 8972044.
We look forward to welcoming your family!