MiniSIBS

MiniSIBS consists of four elements:

• A screening form that can be used to identify challenges experienced by siblings.
• An informational film for kindergartens that can be used to increase staff knowledge about siblings’ needs.
• A play method consisting of three short play sessions with the sibling and a kindergarten staff member, designed to explore topics from everyday life that the child is preoccupied with.
• A film resource with reflection tasks that can be used in conversations between parents and kindergarten staff to jointly find the best ways to support the sibling.

Why can MiniSIBS be useful?

Siblings as next of kin are at increased risk of developing psychological difficulties. There is limited research on siblings as next of kin in preschool age, but a new literature review conducted by the Sibling Project suggests that younger siblings are also living under significant strain. We also continually hear from parents in our work who are calling for more support for the youngest siblings. Early prevention in at-risk families is important for preventing mental health problems in children, and Norwegian kindergartens play a central role in this preventive and supportive work.

How was MiniSIBS developed?

MiniSIBS was developed by the Sibling Project (Frambu and the University of Oslo) with active contributions from patient organizations (Handicappede barns foreldreforening and Voksne for Barn), kindergartens (Bråten barnehage and Frambu barnehage), hospitals (Oslo University Hospital), and foundations (Nordre Åsen and Frambu/Leve Nå). The development process involved a systematic literature review, a focus group with parents, and two creative workshops. MiniSIBS was also piloted and evaluated by 24 families and kindergartens in a project that also involved PALBU Midt and PALBU sør-øst (pediatric palliative care teams).

Who can use MiniSIBS?

MiniSIBS can be used by any service provider in contact with families who have a child with illness or disability and who also have typically developing siblings of preschool age.

Although MiniSIBS can be used in multiple settings, it has been specifically developed with the intention that healthcare professionals can screen preschool-aged siblings’ needs (using the MiniSIBS form) and communicate the need for support to the child’s kindergarten.

Kindergartens can increase staff competence regarding siblings as next of kin by watching the MiniSIBS informational film individually or during staff meetings.

Kindergartens have the opportunity to find out what siblings are experiencing and support them by conducting play sessions inspired by the MiniSIBS play manual.

Kindergartens can hold more structured conversations with parents about siblings’ needs using the MiniSIBS materials.

MiniSIBS is free and available to anyone who wishes to use it. Access to the materials only requires registration and consent to be contacted in the event of a request to participate.