The sibling dynamic is important in any family, but especially so when one has Williams syndrome. Family is tremendously important to those with WS and their siblings will be in their life longer than grandparents and parents. They can be a very important support for each other.
Siblings of all ages provide sessions at every WSA convention and are encouraged to be frank with us...they are! And we have learned that in general, sibling relations in families affected by Williams syndrome are much the same as they are in every family - the siblings play together, fight with each other, and hug each other just like siblings in every family. Issues and frustrations can be caused by a lack of understanding of Williams syndrome and the siblings' strengths and weaknesses. As understanding grows so does appreciation of the strengths and special characteristics between brothers and sisters, and very close bonds are formed.
Help us Shape Support for Siblings of Individuals with WS
Siblings of people with Williams syndrome (and other disabilities) have their own unique perspectives, concerns, and need for support. As we expand our sibling-focused programs, we want to hear directly from siblings themselves. We’re hosting a series of Zoom conversations in October to gather that feedback.
These Zoom sessions will be facilitated by Dr. Carolyn Shivers, and supported by Joan Cornachio and the WSA.
Dr. Shivers is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Niagara University, where she directs the Undergraduate Minor in Disability Studies. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame with a Ph.D. in psychology from Vanderbilt University, she studies psychosocial outcomes for siblings of people with disabilities and the ways ableism shapes the lives of people with disabilities and their families.
Joan Cornachio, M.S.Ed., is an educator, disability rights advocate, and parent of a 35-year-old adult with Williams syndrome. As founder of Empowered Family Futures, she coaches families of individuals with disabilities through the emotional and relational challenges of caregiving. Joan previously served as Associate Director of Supported Decision-Making New York at Hunter College/CUNY, where she helped advance the right of people with I/DD to make their own decisions with support from people they trust.
WORKSHOP: Supporting Siblings - What Do Siblings Need?
Join us for Zoom workshops designed to give siblings the opportunity to share things like what they wish their parents knew and what kind of support they need.
These sessions are intended to be safe spaces for siblings to share their thoughts and feelings. Though we know younger siblings may need parental assistance to log into the Zoom, it is preferred that their sibling with Williams syndrome not be present for the sessions.
- ADULT SIBLINGS (18+). Thursday, October 8th at 8 pm ET: Click here to register
- TEEN SIBLINGS (13-17). Wednesday, October 14th at 8 pm ET: Click here to register
- Knowing teen schedules can often be tightly booked, this Zoom session will be open for 2 hours, so teens can drop in anytime during that window.
- YOUTH SIBLINGS (7-12). Sunday, October 18 at 7 pm ET: Click here to register
- ADULT SIBLINGS (18+) SESSION 2 (as part of the FSN - Adult Siblings Support Group). Sunday, October 18 at 8 pm ET: Click here to join this meeting
WORKSHOP: Supporting Siblings - What Do Parents Need?
Join us for a Zoom workshop for parents who want to support their children who don't have Williams syndrome, no matter their age. Come share how the WSA can help, what you wish you'd known sooner, and what you would do differently if you had the chance. Dr. Carolyn Shivers and Joan Cornachio will lead the discussion, with WSA staff taking notes.
- Tuesday, October 20th at 8 pm ET: Click here to register
