Caring for the Caregiver

Supporting your other children

As a parent, you want to give equal attention to all of your children. But when parenting a child with special health care needs, that can be hard. It may feel like there’s never enough of your attention to go around — and your other kids might begin to feel left out

It can help to understand what your typically developing child or teen might be thinking and feeling.

By answering questions in an age-appropriate way and being open and honest, you can help ease worries, clear up any confusion, and maybe even give your other kids a chance to help out.

Kids who feel understood, loved, and secure about their place in the family can thrive — and the bond between siblings can grow. Here’s what might come up with kids at different ages and stages of development.