Best Buddies Siblings Program
Empowering Siblings, Supporting Families.
The Best Buddies Siblings Program offers a flexible and supportive experience designed to uplift, connect, and empower siblings of individuals with IDD who do not have disabilities. Siblings will make genuine connections, share their experiences, gain understanding and confidence to navigate social and familial dynamics, and learn self-care and emotional expression.
Virtual Events
Support
Education
Celebrate
Build Community
Connect
Program Options
Siblings of individuals with IDD who join the program will have the opportunity to participate in age-appropriate offerings.
- Sibling Socials offer in-person or virtual gatherings where siblings meet, play, and build friendships with others who understand life with a brother or sister with IDD.
- 1:1 Sibling Matching pairs siblings of similar ages and interests to connect, have fun, and build meaningful 1:1 friendships online or in person.
- Siblings Community App hosts monthly virtual meetups featuring games, activities, and guided conversations in a safe, supportive and welcoming space. Access only available after membership application is approved.
- Mentorship Pods bring together small groups (4–6 teens) led by a trained young adult sibling mentor to share experiences, connect, and learn together—offered virtually and in select cities.
Why This Matters
Siblings of individuals with IDD encounter unique circumstances that require support and attention. The Siblings Program aims to address these common stressors.
Emotional & Mental Health Strain:
The program provides space for siblings to share experiences and meet others that they can relate to, which can lead to a sense of normalcy, and reduce stress, anxiety, and emotional burden.
Lack of Understanding of IDD:
Through curated conversations, siblings will gain understanding about their brother’s/sister’s disability, advocacy, and how to navigate their unique family dynamics.
Role Strain & Premature Responsibility:
Open conversations and confidence-building activities will take the pressure off siblings and support them in decision making.
Social Isolation & Lack of Peer Support:
A community built on forming in-person and virtual connections will enable siblings to build friendships and integrate with peers who truly understand their journey.
Parent FAQs
- Encourage participation (without pressure) Invite your child to try different parts of the program—virtual events, matching, or in-person socials—while letting them choose what feels comfortable.
- Help with scheduling Remind them about upcoming events, help them log into virtual sessions, or organize transportation for in-person activities when available.
- Create open conversation and model healthy communication Check in after events or match conversations. Ask how they’re feeling, what they enjoyed, or if anything was challenging. Show them how to express their feelings, take breaks, and talk about their role as a sibling.
- Show appreciation and celebrate small wins Let them know their feelings and contributions matter. Feeling seen and valued makes a big difference. Acknowledge when they make a new friend, share their feelings, or try something new. Small celebrations build confidence.
- Host a sibling night in your area Take the lead organizing a fun activity where your child can meet other siblings in a familiar setting, as well as for parents to connect!
