In families with a child who has disabilities, their typically-developing siblings cannot be ignored! In this thirty-minute workshop, participants will be introduced to the unique concerns and expectations of siblings across the lifespan. We’ll also discuss what parents can do to minimize sibling concerns and maximize opportunities. Questions will be addressed such as:

- What IS a glass sibling?

- What are common characteristics of glass siblings?

- What common concerns do siblings have, and how can we support them?

- I’m so tired already, I have nothing left to give my typically developing child. What can I do?

Mary Mecham is an active disability advocate with a special interest in individuals with Severe Intellectual Disability and rare diseases. She’s been an advocate and speaker since 2013 and is a published author of multiple young adult novels. She is the founder and Director of Disability Book Week, as well as the President of the Texas Partners in Policymaking Alumni Association.

Mecham has three children, two of which have rare diseases and Severe IDD. She is a graduate of Texas Partners in Policymaking and Rare Advocate Learning programs, and received certifications through Sibshops and USU’s disability advocate program. She serves as the SATB2 Gene Foundation’s Parent Liaison for Texas, is a council member for the Katy ISD Disability Advisory Council, and regularly volunteers with Rare Disease Legislative Advocates.