Press Release
Introducing a New Program Just for Sibs of Kids with Special Needs
Brothers and sisters will have the longest-lasting relationship with a sibling who has a disability - one that can easily exceed 65 years. During their lives, they will experience most of the unique concerns and joys their parents do. But few siblings of kids with special needs ever have a chance to talk about their issues with others who "get it" - until now.
Julie Hudak-Salvat, LCSW, and sponsoring organization, Special Kids Special Families, is introducing a new program called Sibshops. Brothers and sisters of kids with special needs from the Colorado Springs area now have a program that's just for them. At Sibshops, they'll have a chance to meet other kids whose brothers and sisters have special needs and talk about the good and not-so-good parts of having a sibling with a developmental disability, learning need, or special medical issue. Most important, they'll have fun!
In addition to receiving peer support, Sibshop participants will play lively "new games," learn about their siblings' disabilities and the services they receive, participate in cooking and craft activities, and make new friends. Sibshops are a spirited celebration of the many contributions made by brothers and sisters. Many brothers and sisters have feelings that are difficult to express, even to a friend; sadness that a sister can't learn things that others take for granted; anger when a brother's behavior prevents the family from doing things other families do; or the special pride when a sibling with a disability learns a basic but important life skill after months or years of practicing. At Sibshops, they'll share these feelings with others who truly understand.
Sibshops are an exciting new support, information, and recreation opportunity for siblings who are in grades 2nd-5th. Sibshops will be held at Special Kids Special Families 3450 N Nevada Avenue, Suite 110 in Colorado Springs and are run by Julie Hudak-Salvat, a credentialed Sibshops facilitator and other qualified professionals. For more information and to register, call Linda Ellegard at 719-447-8983 x19 or Julie at 719-375-9285 or visit www.SKSFcolorado.org. $15 registration fee for each child includes all activity expenses, Sibshop t-shirt, snack and take home item. The first Sibshop will be held on Saturday, January 26th from 2-4pm. Additional Sibshop dates are February 23rd, March 16th, April 27th, and May 4th, 2013. If you are a parent and interested in your child attending a Sibshops workshop, please attend our Parent Orientation meeting on Saturday, January 19th from 1-2pm at SKSF Adult Services; 3450 N Nevada Avenue. Please RSVP to Linda Ellegard at 719-447-8983 x19.
