SibWorks is an evidence-based peer support program for kids aged 8-12 who have a sibling with disability. The program is designed to support siblings by building their emotional wellbeing and resilience, and connecting with others who share a similar experience.
Upcoming Program! January 2025
TIME: 12:30pm-5:30pm
DATES: Mon 20th, Wed 22nd & Fri 24th January 2025 (attend all 3 days)
VENUE: Gungaderra Homestead*, Otway St, Harrison ACT
COST: $570 (includes afternoon tea, workbook, all materials, certificate)
BRING/WEAR: Water bottle, hat, sneakers/sandals (no thongs please!)
*Gungaderra Homestead is a short walk from the Mapleton Ave Light Rail stop
Program Flyer
What is SibWorks?
SibWorks is a program by Siblings Australia, who for 25 years have been providing support and advocacy for siblings of people who are disabled or have chronic illness. SibWorks aims to connect participants in a supportive peer group environment, allowing kids to build skills and resilience together, and feel less alone in their sibling experience. SibWorks is designed to help children understand disability and engage more positively with their sibling. The program provides fun and practical learning experiences, which build emotional wellbeing and problem-solving skills.
Outcomes
By the end of the program, participants will:
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understand more about disability and functional challenges
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feel less alone
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know new ways to deal with tricky feelings
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have practiced coping skills they can use in their lives
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feel more positive about themselves as siblings
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Siblings often leave with a better understanding and acceptance of their own sibling with disability, which can add to the strength of their relationship.
Topics
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Getting to know each other
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Developing group cohesion
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Understanding difference
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Exploring disability
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Building emotional awareness and emotional literacy
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Identifying feelings connected to challenges
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Developing problem-solving skills and strategies
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Learning coping skills and mindfulness techniques
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Celebrating strength through unity and togetherness
Facilitator
Tess Yvanovich is an accredited SibWorks facilitator and experienced educator, having taught in ACT schools for six years. She's a Professional Member of the Australian Institute of Training and Development and holds postgraduate qualifications in both Education and Community & Health Development. Since 2020, Tess has worked as an Inclusion Support Specialist and Principal of Right4me. She is proud to identify as disabled and neurodivergent. You can read more about Tess here, or check out some testimonials to see what other people are saying!​​
Evidence base
SibWorks has a strong grounding in psychological and educational theory. A 2015 randomised control trial (Roberts, Ejova et al.) found that children in the intervention group had improved emotional and behavioural functioning with a medium to large effect, both post-intervention and at the 3-month follow up.
SibWorks draws on the following approaches:
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): helps overcome problems and change unhelpful or unhealthy ways of thinking, feeling and behaving using practical self-help strategies
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Mindfulness: helping children build regulation, relaxation and coping skills to manage challenges
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PACE model: creating emotionally safe group learning environments for vulnerable children
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Ecological systems theory: building layers of support around siblings, including families, schools, communities, and professional support services
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Sociocultural development: optimising learning through involvement of peers
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Iceberg model: understanding that feelings and needs always underlie behaviour