You Are Important Too

Neurodiversity Hub Wirral

You Are Important Too

(Suggested alternative: Your feelings matter)

It is normal for siblings to have mixed feelings about life with their brother or sister.

Feeling worried

(Suggested alternative: When you feel anxious)

Everyone feels worried sometimes. Worrying is normal. But it can be hard to talk about. Too much worry can make it hard to enjoy life and can affect schoolwork. It is important to get help with worries.

Some things you can do if you feel worried

  • Talk to your parent about your worries. Parents like to know what their children are thinking about.

  • If you cannot talk to your parent, talk to someone at school. This could be your teacher, someone from pastoral care or a school counsellor.

  • Write your worries in a diary. This can help you get the thoughts out of your head and onto paper.

Feeling sad

(Suggested alternative: When you feel upset)

Siblings often feel sad because their brother or sister cannot do the same things as other children. You may also feel sad if your brother or sister is very ill. Feeling sad is normal.

Some things you can do if you feel sad

  • Tell someone you trust, such as your parent or a friend.

  • Do things that comfort you. This could be stroking a pet, watching a film you like, or having a warm bath with bubbles.

  • Remember it is okay to cry. Crying helps your body let go of sadness.

Feeling angry

(Suggested alternative: When you feel cross)

It is normal to feel angry with a brother or sister sometimes. It is okay to feel angry and okay to say you feel angry. But it is not okay to hit someone or say hurtful things. When you feel angry, it is hard to think clearly. It is easier to sort things out after you calm down.

Some things you can do if you feel angry

  • Talk to someone about how you feel. This could be your parent, a pet, a friend or even your favourite cuddly toy.

  • Write your thoughts in your diary.

  • Draw a picture of how you feel or text a friend about it.

  • Try calming activities. You could listen to music, go for a walk, count backwards from 100, breathe slowly and deeply, or have a warm bath.

I’m proud of myself and my family

(Suggested alternative: Feeling good about who you are)

Many siblings feel proud of the things they have done. They also feel proud of what their family has achieved. It can help to think about the things you are proud of.

Some things you can do when you feel proud

  • Make a list of the things you have done that make you feel proud. Show the list to your parent.

  • Put certificates or awards on your bedroom wall so you can see them every day.

  • Ask your parent to tell you why they are proud of you.

For more information about feelings visit:
https://www.sibs.org.uk/youngsibs/info-and-advice/feelings/