The Hidden Story of Special Needs Siblings: Growing Up with Disability and Raising a Child with Autism with Sandra Peoples

What is it really like to grow up as the sibling of a child with disabilities? How does that experience shape the way you parent your own family?In this episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie Holt talks with Sandra Peoples, a disability ministry consultant, author, professor, and mom of a son with level-three autism. Sandra shares her unique perspective of living on both sides of the story: growing up with a sister with Down syndrome and now raising a child with significant autism.Sandra opens up about the hidden experiences many siblings carry — from trying to make themselves “smaller,” so their parents have less to worry about, to navigating embarrassment, protectiveness, and love.Together, Carrie and Sandra discuss:• What Sandra’s parents did well in raising a special needs sibling • The stage of life that can be most difficult for siblings • How parents can validate difficult emotions without guilt or shame • Navigating responsibility and avoiding unhealthy parentification • Why disability families are still one of the most overlooked mission fields in the churchIf you’re raising a child with disabilities and wondering how this journey is shaping your other children, this honest and grace-filled conversation will offer both wisdom and encouragement.Eps. 41; 3/10/26Resources:Sandra’s Book: Accessible ChurchFind Sandra on FB and InstagramSandra’s WebsiteIf you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review!Get my new resource: 5 Practices For Processing GriefClick here if you want to be a guest on the showCarrie’s Facebook or InstagramFind me on SubstackMy book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.