ly afloat can lead to burnout if left untreated. The Road to Healing
For former glass children, healing often begins with acknowledging the invisible weight they carried while growing up. They may benefit greatly from struc- tured support programs, like sibling groups and counseling, which can improve coping strategies and overall well-being. Beyond peer support, indi- vidual therapy can help glass children untangle complicated family dynamics, while also teaching them to voice needs that once felt unacceptable. What many find most transformative is not simply processing the past, but developing the confidence to say: I matter too. Healing is less about erasing old patterns and more about rewriting the narrative of self, from the overlooked sibling to a person whose presence is acknowl- edged and valued. For Parents: Seeing the Invisible Sibling Parents can’t erase the challenges of raising a high-needs child, but they can take steps to ensure their other children feel seen. Experts emphasize three powerful tools: honest com- munication, dedicated attention, and validation. According to an article in Parents, explaining a sibling’s condition in age-appropriate ways helps reduce confusion and isolation. Even small rituals of one-on-one time— like a walk after dinner or reading before bed—signal that a child’s needs matter too. When difficult emotions surface, like jealousy or resentment, acknowledging them as normal rath- er than dismissing them can protect emotional health. Peer support is also critical; programs like Sibshops give sib- lings the chance to connect with others who share their experiences, breaking the sense of invisibility. In short, while parents may never be able to divide time perfectly, they can ensure that every child in the family grows up know- ing they are visible, valued, and loved. Glass children may grow up in the shadows, but they don’t have to stay there. With the right support, they can reclaim visibility and thrive. For parents, the most powerful step is simple: notice them. In doing so, every child in the family can grow up knowing they are seen, valued, and loved.
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