A Power Of A Sibling

Author:  Anjali Barretto | April 30th, 2022

I recently began working with 4.8-year-old Abe (name changed) who had received a diagnosis of ASD.

Abe is a twin and his neurotypical brother Ayd (name changed) is his constant play buddy at home.

During the first session, Abe came in with his Dad while Ayd was waiting in the car with Mum. Through the session, he would look at his Dad and say, ‘Ayd car’ and then look at the door. Any attempts to engage Abe was met with firm resistance. Abe would deliberately crawl under his Dad’s chair, avoid looking at me and even turned his back to me to communicate that he was not going to engage with me in any way!!! What excellent non-spoken communication! I understood exactly what he wanted and requested Dad to bring Ayd in with Abe for the next session. This was met with some apprehension from Dad as he felt that this would be disruptive more than constructive. But I said, ‘Let’s give it a go’…

The next session had Abe come in with Ayd. I am THRILLED to share that with Ayd’s presence Abe was content and this transformed the session!!! Abe now focused on the play-based activities at hand and we also practised waiting for a turn as the other twin had my attention. Abe was engaged and focused. I felt content that we were able to successfully work towards his goals rather than frustrated and disappointed. It was just amazing to see as well as experience. Ayd was Abe’s wingman and true support not only to Abe but to me as well. Never underestimate the power of a sibling, and this was a lovely example of twin power!

The Autism Department is here to help all parents of children with ASD. Do reach out to us for further information. You can connect with them through Sethu: from Tuesday to Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm on +91-7720013749.