JF&CS hosts Sibshops - fun events for kids who have siblings with disabilities, special needs, and chronic mental health issues.

Sibshops

JF&CS Sibshops offer kids and teens who have siblings with special needs a place to connect and build community.  

Sibshops is a nationally acclaimed program of fun workshops for kids and teens who have siblings with disabilities, chronic illness, or mental health needs. Sibshops events provide participants the chance to meet and connect with other kids who also have siblings with special needs, in a fun and recreational setting.

Sibshops meets monthly on select Sunday afternoons in and around the Greater Boston area. At our events the group spends time together sharing a meal, doing fun activities like bowling, painting, and escape rooms, and engaging in SibChat discussion and activities. 

At Sibshops, siblings will: 

The group is facilitated by trained JF&CS staff with the support of college student volunteers who are also “sibs” and act as role models for participants. Sibshops provides a place for kids and teens to have fun together, learn from one another, and build a community of ongoing support. 

Registration 

Registration is open to all kids and teens ages 8 and up. An annual registration fee covers participation in the program year, which runs from September to June (enrollment is ongoing throughout the year). Scholarships are available so that our program is fully accessible to all regardless of finances. 

To learn more and to register for Sibshops, please contact Valerie Maio, Manager, Inclusive Programs for Children and Families: vmaio@jfcsboston.org. 

"My child feels welcome, safe, and comfortable at Sibshops. I love the camaraderie of the group and the kind approach of the facilitators—and the special activities and adventures are a huge plus! Sibshops is a unique opportunity for my child to connect with other kids and to have something fun to do that is all her own.