SUMMARY - In Part 2 of this series on supporting siblings, we shift from awareness to action. Building on the themes discussed in Part 1, this episode offers practical, brain-first strategies parents can use to support siblings who are impacted by challenging behaviors at home. From conversations about how brains work differently to creating safety plans and strengthening protective factors, this episode focuses on what you can do to help siblings feel safe, seen, and supported.

TAKEAWAYS:

• Begin ongoing, age-appropriate conversations about how brains work differently to help siblings make sense of behavior without excusing harm.
• Clarify that “fair doesn’t mean equal". Fairness is about meeting each child’s unique brain and nervous system needs.
• Explain the "why" behind different rules, responses, or accommodations to create predictability and security.
• Build protective factors for siblings, including consistent one-on-one time with a regulated parent or other trusted adult.
• Create clear safety plans so siblings know exactly what to do during escalations and do not feel responsible for managing the situation.
• Provide open space for siblings to express the full range of their emotions without minimizing or shaming them.
• Avoid creating a culture of secrecy, meaning help siblings develop language and a plan for how to talk about their family experience with others.
• Prioritize your own resilience and nervous system care, as your regulation is one of the most powerful supports for everyone in the home.

RESOURCES:

Brain First Parenting Podcast, Episode 19: Building Resilience in Moments a Day

Concrete, manageable ways to strengthen your own nervous system and resilience over time.

Blog Post on “Circling Back”

Explanation of the circling back process and why addressing behaviors outside of escalated moments supports learning and safety.

=======================

If you appreciated this episode, and would like to receive a weekly note from Eileen about the Brain First Parenting journey every Monday, you can subscribe to her free newsletter HERE!

You can also check out all the FREE resources Eileen offers for parents, and learn more about all things Brain First at her website: eileendevine.com

And of course, find and follow Eileen on social media:

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

Pinterest