A guide for parents
Supporting brothers and sisters
01
The whole family experiences change
Brothers and sisters may be affected by hospital stays, altered routines and less time with parents. They can feel worried, jealous, proud or left out, sometimes at once. ECHO offers information for brothers and sisters and chances to meet others in a similar situation. It supports families cared for by particular hospitals and their networks.
Check directly whether your family can use the service and which activities are running.
02
What happens next
Talk in a way they can use
Before explaining, ask your child’s brother or sister what they think is happening. Use clear words that fit their age and avoid promises about outcomes. They may need to hear that a heart difference is not something they caused or can catch. Invite questions over time, including ones about scary equipment or why a parent has been away.
Ask the hospital team for resources or help explaining a difficult situation.
Protect ordinary sibling life
Consider a predictable small moment together, a familiar carer during hospital stays and a way to exchange drawings or messages. Explain plans for school, meals and visits so they are not left guessing. Let siblings help if they want, but do not make them responsible for medical care or an adult’s wellbeing. Keep space for their activities and achievements.
Ask how they would like school staff to be informed. If worries, changes in behaviour or sleep problems continue, ask about support. You can speak to their school, GP or the hospital’s family support team. Their needs remain important even during an intense treatment period.
03
Questions to ask
Save the questions you want to take to your next appointment. You can edit them in your Journal.
- How can we find out what each sibling understands about the heart condition and what they may be worried about?
- Which everyday routines could we keep predictable for siblings during appointments or hospital stays?
- Is there support for brothers and sisters that would suit our family, and how can we access it?
Sources and review
Sources checked 9 October 2026. Independent clinical review pending.
- Evelina Children’s Heart Organisation: Support for siblings
Accessed 9 October 2026
- Evelina Children’s Heart Organisation: About ECHO
Accessed 9 October 2026
- Tiny Tickers: Are you pregnant?
Accessed 9 October 2026