Parents often wonder how to explain autism to a sibling. It’s a question that is asked frequently. We hope that this toolkit and the resources it includes will help you guide the conversation and provide some useful information for the whole family.

A few things to keep in mind when starting the conversation is the language you use. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

  • Find out what your child may already know (or think they know) about Autism. “Do you know what autism is?”
  • Speak factually about autism and focus on positive language.
  • Discuss and dispel any “myths” they may bring up about autism.
  • Use age appropriate language.
  • Be prepared to repeat yourself and revisit the conversation often.


For more information about what is available in your region, connect with your local autism organization to see if there are other resources, guidance and support.

Sibling Videos


Story Books

The following 3 books are video readings.


Book Suggestions

The following are a list of common book suggestions for siblings:

Everybody is Different: A book for young People who have Brothers or Sisters with Autism

By Fiona Bleach

This book serves as a resource. It explores common questions and offers suggestions for the whole family.

My Brother Charlie

Written by Holly & Ryan Peete

This children’s book is about twin brothers. Ryan explains all about his Autistic brother Charlie.

My Brother is Autistic

By Jennifer Moore-Mallinos

This book intended for pre-school children and early readers explores the concerns and victories of growing up with an Autistic sibling through the eyes of a brother.

Siblings: The Autism Spectrum Through Our Eyes

Edited by Jane Hohnson and Anne Van Rennselaer

Intended for middle school early teens, this book is a collection of stories from siblings.

Additional Information


Local Autism Societies

Many local Societies across the province have additional resources, supports and family events. Getting the whole family involved is a great way to meet other families and grow like minded connections.

Contact your local Society to see what they have to offer! 

 

The goal of Peace Autism Society is to provide support, resources and acceptance for all families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder in Grande Prairie and surrounding area.

peaceautismsociety@outlook.com
587-289-8072

 

The Chinook Autism Society’s Facebook group helps autism families to find upcoming events for children with autism and their families.

Group members can share information and sites dedicated to autism and related resources. It’s an opportunity for parents, community, and therapists to provide support, ideas, and resource information.

chinookautismsociety@gmail.com
403-331-8890

 

The Autism Society of the RMWB strives to accommodate a support network that fosters an inclusive community by providing information, support, awareness, and programs to all those in our community affected by ASD and other barriers. Located in Fort McMurray, it offers a variety of resources for families to borrow. They strive to provide family events throughout the year. To find out more, connect with the Community Development Officer to see how they can help.

community@autismrmwb.org
780-215-2459
Like them on Facebook

 

Autism Calgary is an organization that serves as the community of families, caregivers and supportive professionals collectively striving for a supportive, accepting and understanding community for individuals and families living with ASD.

Check out their Support Groups & Family Activities

info@autismcalgary.com
403-250-5033
Like them on Facebook

 

Autism Edmonton has become known as a “go-to” source that connects families, individuals and professionals with autism-related resources.

Autism Edmonton helps people navigate their options for services, find vital information, and develop skills and peer support through facilitated activity and discussion groups Check out some of their Programs & Resources.

info@autismedmonton.org
780-453-3971
Like them on Facebook