Supporting Siblings of
Children with Learning Differences
Understanding and Managing
Family Impact
David P. Sylvestro, MA, CSP
Hallie A. Buckingham, EdD
Thursday
March 19, 2026
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Having a sibling with learning differences can be a uniquely enriching experience where neurotypical siblings often develop empathy, understanding, and appreciation for individual differences. They may also feel confused or limited in their own opportunities to be recognized.
In this presentation, Dr. Hallie A. Buckingham and school psychologist David P. Sylvestro will draw on their professional expertise to explore how learning differences shape the entire family system and share practical ways parents can support all children, including how to:
— Monitor the emotional climate of the household;
— Promote discussion by educating all family members about LD;
— Provide age-appropriate explanations and invite questions from siblings;
— Ensure every child feels seen, celebrated, and appreciated;
— Strengthen communication across the family; and
— Access helpful resources and support.
More About Dave Sylvestro
More About Hallie Buckingham
Presented by The Southport CoLAB in partnership with SPED*NET
SPED*NET does not provide medical or psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The material in this presentation is provided for educational purposes only.
Supporting Siblings of
Children with Learning Differences
Understanding and Managing
Family Impact
David P. Sylvestro, MA, CSP
Hallie A. Buckingham, EdD
Thursday
March 19, 2026
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Having a sibling with learning differences can be a uniquely enriching experience where neurotypical siblings often develop empathy, understanding, and appreciation for individual differences. They may also feel confused or limited in their own opportunities to be recognized.
In this presentation, Dr. Hallie A. Buckingham and school psychologist David P. Sylvestro will draw on their professional expertise to explore how learning differences shape the entire family system and share practical ways parents can support all children, including how to:
— Monitor the emotional climate of the household;
— Promote discussion by educating all family members about LD;
— Provide age-appropriate explanations and invite questions from siblings;
— Ensure every child feels seen, celebrated, and appreciated;
— Strengthen communication across the family; and
— Access helpful resources and support.
More About Dave Sylvestro
More About Hallie Buckingham
Presented by The Southport CoLAB in partnership with SPED*NET
SPED*NET does not provide medical or psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The material in this presentation is provided for educational purposes only.
Supporting Siblings of
Children with Learning Differences
Understanding and Managing
Family Impact
David P. Sylvestro, MA, CSP
Hallie A. Buckingham, EdD
Thursday
March 19, 2026
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Having a sibling with learning differences can be a uniquely enriching experience where neurotypical siblings often develop empathy, understanding, and appreciation for individual differences. They may also feel confused or limited in their own opportunities to be recognized.
In this presentation, Dr. Hallie A. Buckingham and school psychologist David P. Sylvestro will draw on their professional expertise to explore how learning differences shape the entire family system and share practical ways parents can support all children, including how to:
— Monitor the emotional climate of the household;
— Promote discussion by educating all family members about LD;
— Provide age-appropriate explanations and invite questions from siblings;
— Ensure every child feels seen, celebrated, and appreciated;
— Strengthen communication across the family; and
— Access helpful resources and support.
More About Dave Sylvestro
More About Hallie Buckingham
Presented by The Southport CoLAB in partnership with SPED*NET
SPED*NET does not provide medical or
psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
The material in this presentation is provided
for educational purposes only.

