UC Davis MIND Institute Child Life Program: Sibling Sessions
Designed for children ages 7-17 who have siblings with autism, Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, or other neurodevelopmental disabilities.
Select date and time
Location
UC Davis MIND Institute
2825 50th Street Sacramento, CA 95817Agenda
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
February 5th: Welcome + All about Me
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
March 5th: Siblings and Shared Experiences + Guest Speaker
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
April 2nd: Identifying Stressors and Stress Responses
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
May 7th: Strategies for Coping with Stress + Special Guest
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
June 4th: Emotional Expression Through Art
6:00 PM - 7:30 AM (+1 day)
August 6th: Finding Your Voice
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
September 3rd: Finding Your Passion
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
October 1st: Pumpkin Painting + Movie Night
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
November 5th: Celebrating YOU + End of the Year Wrap Up
About this event
Join Our Monthly Sibling Support Sessions
These sessions are exclusively designed for children ages 7-17 who have siblings with autism, Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, or other neurodevelopmental disabilities.
Our gatherings offer a safe and structured space for social connection and enrichment, where participants can interact with peers, engage in activities, and share experiences—all in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
What to Expect:
- Therapeutic Activities and group discussions
- Topics such as shared experiences, stress, coping strategies, mental wellness, and self-care
- Special guests and unique experiences
- A focus on expression, empowerment, and building connections
Sessions are offered at no cost to participants. Dinner is included for participants for each session.
Frequently asked questions
Sibling groups provide a safe and supportive space for siblings of children with disabilities to connect with others who share similar experiences, learn about disabilities, and participate in fun activities.
The sessions are designed for siblings ages 7–17 of children with disabilities, including autism, ADHD, fragile X syndrome, and other developmental conditions
Sibling groups meet once a month in a structured and fun setting, except for January, July, and December.
No, the sibling group sessions are free of charge. However, we ask that you register ONLY for the group sessions that your child will attend.
Parents and guardians are typically encouraged to drop off their children and return at the end of the session. However, if parents and caregivers would like to stay onsite, they may stay in the building waiting areas.
Sessions are led by Certified Child Life Specialists and trained staff many of whom are bilingual (English and Spanish) and have experience working with families of children with disabilities.
Please let us know in advance about any special needs, allergies, or dietary restrictions so we can make accommodations.
Sibling groups are helpful for children who may feel isolated, want to learn more about their sibling’s condition, or need a safe space to share their experiences and make friends.
• Fun and creative activities • Games • Age-appropriate movies • Open discussions • Special Guests • Guest Speakers