What is Sibshops?
Sibshops is a fun and energetic program for siblings of individuals with special needs. Sibshops are individual events that allow participants to acknowledge their life-long concerns and meet other siblings in a relaxed and recreational setting. Activities include discussing common joys and concerns, learning how to handle situations commonly experienced by others in the group, and learning more about the implications of having a sibling with special needs. The Sibshops model is the first national program dedicated to the life-long and ever-changing concerns of millions of brothers and sisters of people with special health, developmental, and mental health concerns. It is a nationally recognized program that exists in many states through a variety of organizations.
Who Participates in Sibshops?
Sibshops events at AZA United are available for typically developing children between the ages of 7 and 14. Most participants have a sibling with autism; however, in some cases participants may have a sibling with other special needs. Individual Sibshop events may have anywhere from 10 to 50 participants.
The AZA Approach
Each event at AZA United is led by staff members who are trained and certified in the Sibshops model. Events typically involve a 3-to-1 staffing ratio to ensure that each child receives high quality attention and support. Most of all, Sibshops are designed to be fun and exciting events so that siblings enjoy their time and want to come back to do it again! Each Sibshop event is about one-hour long.
Funding Options
Due to COVID-19, virtual events will be at no cost to you! Once we resume back to in-person events, the fee will be $10. Scholarships may also be available based on financial need.
For more information on how to access funding for services, click here.
Getting Started
Sibshops is typically scheduled on the first Saturday of the month from 10am-11am via Zoom during the months of February – October. If you would like register your child for an upcoming Sibshops event, please email sibshops@AZAunited.org. We would love to have them join in on the fun!
Prior to attending our Sibshops events for the first time, intake forms will be required, click here to complete and submit the forms.
IMPORTANT: When you complete the intake forms, it will ask for your email address to verify your digital signature. After you complete the form, you will receive an email from Adobe Sign. Be sure to open that email and click the link to verify your digital signature. AZA United will only receive your forms after you have clicked the verification link in the email. If you do not receive a verification email, it is possible that you entered your email address incorrectly and will need to complete the form again.
