Every child in a family impacted by disability has a story, and that includes the siblings. What if your children’s ministry could support them, not by adding another program, but by simply seeing them through Jesus’ eyes?

While many churches focus on accommodations for the child with additional needs, their brothers and sisters often take on quiet, unseen roles that shape their faith and family life; they are the overlooked caregivers in our ministry contexts.

As children’s ministry leaders, we have an incredible opportunity to help siblings know that they, too, are fully seen, valued, and loved by God and His Church.

Rethink “Support”

How can our ministries notice, nurture, and disciple siblings without adding extra pressure to families already managing full schedules? The answer isn’t another program; it’s a fresh perspective.

Look for ways to weave sibling care into what you already do:

• Invite siblings to be part of existing children’s, youth, or family events.

• Provide “undercover buddies” to ensure they’re participants, not caretakers.

• Celebrate their presence and contributions apart from their siblings’ needs.

Let Siblings Be Kids Too

While siblings often grow into compassionate, capable volunteers, they also need permission to play, rest, and belong. Think about creating moments, big or small, where they can simply enjoy being kids:

• Offer respite opportunities or hangouts just for siblings.

• Create spaces where they don’t have to explain their family story.

• Encourage them to connect with peers who understand their experiences.

Even small gestures of inclusion can remind siblings: You matter here.

Work Together Across Ministries

You don’t have to do this alone. Partner with your youth, family, or care ministry leaders to share insights and strengthen support systems. Help your team understand what siblings might be experiencing grief, isolation, parentification, or compassion fatigue, and collaborate to respond with practical care and compassion.

When the church works together to see the whole family, the gospel becomes visible through love in action.

Take One Small Step This Week

You don’t have to start a new initiative; just start noticing.

Pray for the siblings of children in your ministry by name. Ask God to show you how to encourage them.

Connect intentionally: send a note, share a high-five in the hallway, or invite a sibling to serve because they’re gifted, not just because they’re available.
Collaborate with youth or family ministry partners to make sibling care part of your next team discussion.

Reflect with your volunteers: “Are we seeing every child, including siblings, the way Jesus does?”

Final Thought

When siblings are seen, heard, and supported, families experience holistic care, and the gospel becomes tangible through your ministry’s love in action.

Small, intentional care today plants seeds of lifelong faith tomorrow. You don’t need a new program, just open your eyes to see the whole family the way Jesus does.

Beth Golik is the Ministry Director for Key Ministry, an organization that equips churches to welcome individuals and families affected by disability, particularly hidden disabilities. Visit keyministry.org to schedule a free consultation.