Child with WS and his brotherThe sibling dynamic is important in any family, but especially so when one has Williams syndrome. Family is tremendously important to those with WS and their siblings will be in their life longer than grandparents and parents. They can be a very important support for each other.

Siblings of all ages provide sessions at every WSA convention and are encouraged to be frank with us...they are! And we have learned that in general, sibling relations in families affected by Williams syndrome are much the same as they are in every family - the siblings play together, fight with each other, and hug each other just like siblings in every family. Issues and frustrations can be caused by a lack of understanding of Williams syndrome and the siblings' strengths and weaknesses. As understanding grows so does appreciation of the strengths and special characteristics between brothers and sisters, and very close bonds are formed.