Wisconsin SibShops

Sibshops are guided by trained facilitators (school psychologists, teachers, counselors or adult siblings, for example) in small, age-appropriate groups.  All are trained in sibling issues, and always keep an eye open for participants who may need additional support.

More information – Click for Sibshop FAQ.

Sibshops in Northeastern Wisconsin

Sibshops have been offered monthly during the school year in northeastern Wisconsin since 1997 by the Fox Valley Sibling Support Network, now known as WisconSibs/Fox Valley.  Most are for boys and girls, but our S.P.A. (Sisters are Pretty Awesome) Sibshop is just for girls and their moms, and our H.U.L.K. (Huggable Unselfish Loveable Kids) Sibshop is just for boys and their dads.

Why do parents enroll their children in WisconSibs events? HERE’S WHAT THEY TELL US:

• “To gain skills in dealing with the ups and downs of being a sibling and make friends with other sibs.”
• “She has been wanting to come to Sibshops since she was 3!”
• “Fun, friendship, support.”
• “Get to know other sibs who struggle with the same frustrations.”
• “Time he can be with other kids and not have to worry about sister interrupting!”
• “Her older brother is in a wheelchair, non-verbal, G-tube fed.  He is always first as he requires a lot from me.  She needs her time.”
• “It is very important to have an outlet for our son to socialize with other siblings of special needs kids. I’m not sure he truly understands just how different his brother is – which is very heartwarming, at times.  But like many families, our ability to participate in many activities – like going swimming or going to Badger Sports Park – wouldn’t be possible altogether.  Thank you for organizing such great group activities!”
• “WisconSibs provides a resource to Wisconsin that is like no other.  We are pleased to have benefitted from this unique opportunity for both of our children.”
• “I think it is valuable for our children to meet others who have siblings with disabilities. I think having my child in a group with someone from her home town was awesome, a great way to make a new friend in the area who also lives day to day with a sibling with special needs :).”
• “I have always been impressed with the quality and professionalism provide by FVSSN [now WisconSibs].”
• “Sibshops offers my daughter a chance to spend time with other kids like herself. It gives her a place to freely express her feelings, both positive and negative, regarding her sister and the family situation.  I think Sibshops help her to realize that it is ok to not always be thrilled with everything about her sibling but still love her.  I also think Sibshops help to increase compassion for people with disabilities.  I know Sibshops has increased her awareness of different types of disabilities.  While most children her age don’t understand disabilities and may stare or make comments, she is very comfortable and will happily interact with people with disabilities besides her sister.”
• “I know Sibshop played a role in helping my son, a former Sibshop participant, develop into the person he is today. He is a compassionate person and very comfortable interacting with his sister and happy to educate others regarding people with disabilities.”