Sibling Involvement: Highlighting the Influential Role of Siblings in Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Social impairments experienced by children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can limit participation in meaningful occupations. Incorporating typically developing siblings of children with ASD in occupational therapy-based community settings is an emerging practice approach that aims to support children with ASD during social challenges to enhance their participation in daily activities. The inclusion of siblings in occupational therapy practice presents a unique opportunity to address social skill development while facilitating positive sibling relationships. In this Opinions in the Profession paper, the influential role siblings play as social models for their siblings with ASD will be examined. The purpose of this paper is to describe sibling-mediated interventions and the distinct role of occupational therapists in facilitating positive sibling interactions and relationships through a coaching approach to promote the achievement of positive social and emotional outcomes.