Sibling Engagement
Siblings are connectors of three groups central to our movement: athletes, families and youth. Through Special Olympics, siblings can find a supportive community, a platform to share their experiences, and an opportunity to develop as leaders. This section will provide resources for youth-age siblings of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Guides
Sibling Engagement Brochure in English (PDF)
Sibling Engagement Brochure: This brochure provides a brief overview of sibling engagement in Special Olympics, including its definition, opportunities to get involved, an example of long-term involvement, and benefits for siblings. Arabic • Chinese • French • Portuguese • Russian • Spanish • Swahili
Sibling Relationships: The Current Literature (PDF)
An overview of the experiences of siblings of people with intellectual disabilities based on findings from a literature review of the current research.
Sibling Relationships: Athlete Leader Perspectives (PDF)
Results and recommendations from a survey and interviews with Special Olympics Athlete Leaders about their relationships with their siblings.
Tips for Inclusive Research (PDF)
Tips to conduct research which meaningfully includes people with intellectual disabilities throughout the entire research process.
Videos
Sibling Youth Leadership
This 3-minute cartoon video follows Jessica, a sibling of a person with an intellectual disability, as she learns about Special Olympics Youth Leadership and opportunities to advocate for people with intellectual disabilities in her community. No Caption • English • French • Spanish
Introduction to Sibling Engagement in Special Olympics
This 3-minute cartoon video follows Sarah, a sibling of a person with an intellectual disability, as she learns how to be involved in Special Olympics and the importance of doing so. No Captions • English • Arabic • Chinese • French • Portuguese • Russian • Spanish • Swahili
3:42
Sibling Engagement Fitness
This 4-minute cartoon video follows Yui, a sibling of a person with an intellectual disability, as he learns about Special Olympics Fitness opportunities and the importance of being healthy. No Captions • English • French • Spanish
Sibling Engagement Unified Sports
This 3-minute cartoon video follows Thabo, a sibling of a person with an intellectual disability, as he learns about Special Olympics Unified Sports and what it means to be a Unified Partner. No Captions • English • French • Spanish
