LAMOILLE — Brothers and sisters of kids with special needs from Bureau, LaSalle and Lee counties now have a program that’s just for them, called Sibshops, sponsored by LaMoille Community Unit School District. At Sibshops they’ll have a chance to meet other kids whose brothers and sisters have special needs and talk about the good and not-so-good parts of having a sibling with a disability. Most importantly, they’ll have fun.

The first Sibshop will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 9 at LaMoille High School, 801 S. Main St. The cost is $5, which includes lunch and lots of fun activities.

Brothers and sisters will have the longest-lasting relationship with a sibling who has special needs – one that can easily exceed 65 years. During their lives, they will experience most of the unique concerns and joys their parents do. But few siblings of kids with special needs ever have a chance to talk about their issues with others who “get it” – until now.