National Siblings Day – April 10

Siblings by Siblings Program

National Siblings Day is celebrated each year on April 10. To honour this, we are proud to feature Grandview Kids’ “Siblings by Siblings” program!

Siblings by Siblings is a peer-led support program created specifically for siblings of children with disabilities or medical complexities. The program provides a safe, welcoming space where siblings can connect with others who understand their lived experiences. Through interactive discussions, games and creative activities, participants build friendships, strengthen coping strategies and recognize one another for their unique roles within their families.

Where did the idea for the program come from?

Siblings often carry a complex mix of emotions, such as pride, protectiveness, responsibility, frustration and love. While they play an important role within their families, they may not always have a dedicated space to process their own experiences. Siblings by Siblings was developed to ensure siblings of Grandview Kids clients feel seen, heard and valued as individuals. The program emphasizes building resilience, confidence and peer connection.

What happens in the Siblings by Siblings program?

The Siblings by Siblings Team, which includes Peer Navigators Ella, Fizza, and Isabella, hosts evening events throughout the year at our Ajax headquarters, The Jerry Coughlan Building. At each event, the team organizes a variety of activities, which have included thoughtful discussions on burnout, decorating cupcakes (for themselves and their siblings), self-care trivia, card games and creating self-care booklets and loot bags.

The program is open to siblings ages 10 to 18 and is positively impacting those who participate. When asked about their favourite Siblings by Siblings activities, participants shared, “My favourite activity is playing with my peers and connecting with them,” and “Making cupcakes — it was so much fun and calming. I just had fun!” When asked about the most inclusive activities, attendees noted, “Talking about my experiences with my siblings,” and “Playing Uno — I felt so included.”

The responses from Siblings by Siblings participants reflect the importance of peer connection, shared storytelling and meaningful yet fun engagement.

Attendance and growth

The promotion of the program’s launch reached 2,809 views (as of August 15, 2025). This attention demonstrated the strong community interest in sibling-focused programming. Since the pilot event, we have seen consistent growth, with attendance ranging from 8 to 16 siblings per session. Notably, 8 participants have been recurring attendees since the very first pilot event, highlighting sustained engagement and the value siblings are finding in the program.

Siblings by Siblings continues to grow as a meaningful and anticipated offering within Family Engagement programming. National Siblings Day provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate siblings and spotlight the importance of investing in spaces designed for them and by them.

Testimonials

“My name is Aaleyah, and I’m in Grade 8. Being part of the Siblings by Siblings program at Grandview Kids has meant a lot to me. Having a sibling with a disability can feel overwhelming because there are a lot of extra responsibilities and moments when things are harder or different from other families. I adapted to how my brother made my life different, and sometimes that was kind of hard for me. Being part of this program helped me realize I’m not alone, and I’ve learned to be more patient, understanding, and proud of my brother and everything he accomplishes.

My favourite part of the Siblings by Siblings program is that it’s run by people with siblings with a disability, just like me, so they actually understand and relate to what it’s like. It makes it easier to open up because they’ve had similar experiences. I also love the events where we can connect, share stories, and just have fun together. This program has given me a safe space to talk about my feelings without judgment, and I would definitely recommend it to other kids who have a sibling at Grandview Kids because it helps you feel heard, supported, and understood.”

– Aaleyah, Grandview Kids sibling

“I really liked going to the Siblings by Siblings group. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it ended up being really fun and comfortable. It was nice meeting other kids who understand what it’s like, and it made me feel less alone.

I liked that we could talk about our feelings without it being awkward or forced. Everyone was really easy to talk to, and the environment was calm and relaxed. It actually helped me open up more than I thought I would. Overall, I had a really good experience, and I’m glad I went. I’d definitely recommend it to other siblings.”

– Kaleb Fancy, Grandview Kids sibling

“I had a really good time at the Siblings by Siblings group. It was lots of fun, and I liked being there with other kids. My favourite part was the snacks and drawing. It was really relaxing and easy to just hang out and enjoy. I can’t wait for the next one!”

– Kareem Fancy, Grandview Kids sibling

To register for an upcoming “Siblings by Siblings” event, follow Grandview Kids on Instagram and Facebook or speak to a member of the Family Engagement Team!