Siblings and eczema: supporting every child in the family

Sharing your time and attention between children can feel like a constant balancing act. When one child is living with eczema, that balance can become even more challenging.

Eczema is more than just a skin condition. It often requires daily skincare, ongoing management and emotional support. Naturally, this means one child may need more of your time and attention, which can sometimes leave siblings feeling overlooked.

Most parents do their best to treat their children equally, ensuring each child feels loved and supported. However, eczema can change the family dynamic. Frequent moisturising, managing flare ups, disrupted sleep and medical appointments can all take up significant time. While this extra care is necessary, siblings may begin to notice the difference, even when it is completely unintentional.

How eczema can affect sibling dynamics

It is not only about the amount of time you spend with each child. The way eczema is managed at home can also unintentionally create a sense of difference.

Phrases such as "special soap", "special food" or "special creams" may make it seem as though one child is receiving different treatment. Although these adjustments are essential for managing eczema, they can sometimes leave siblings feeling excluded or confused.

Open communication is one of the best ways to support everyone in the family. Talk to your children about eczema in a way that matches their age and level of understanding. Explain what eczema is, why it happens, and why certain routines or products are needed. Helping siblings understand that these differences are about health and comfort, rather than favouritism, can reduce misunderstandings. It also gives them the opportunity to ask questions and share how they are feeling.

It is equally important to acknowledge that siblings may sometimes feel frustrated, jealous or left out. These feelings are normal and do not mean they care any less about their brother or sister. Letting them know it is okay to talk about these emotions without judgement can help them feel heard and supported.

Helping siblings feel included

Siblings can play a positive role in supporting their brother or sister. When appropriate, involving them in small, age appropriate ways can strengthen their relationship.

This might be as simple as letting you know if their sibling is scratching, reminding them to apply their moisturiser, or gently encouraging them to stick to their skincare routine. Being included helps siblings feel valued and part of the solution rather than left on the outside.

The language you use around eczema can also make a difference. Where possible, using the same everyday products for the whole family can help reduce the sense of difference. If certain products do need to be different, referring to them as "eczema friendly" rather than "special" helps explain their purpose without making them seem exclusive.

What should not be shared

That said, some items should not be shared. Moisturisers and prescription creams should only be used by the child they are intended for, and towels or face cloths should not be shared.

This helps reduce the risk of skin infections, which children with eczema may be more prone to, including infections such as impetigo or molluscum contagiosum.

Tips for supporting siblings when one child has eczema

There is no perfect way to balance everyone’s needs, but small, consistent actions can help siblings feel seen and included.

1. Explain eczema in simple language

   Help siblings understand that eczema care is about health and comfort, not favouritism.

   
   

2. Avoid using the word "special"

   Try using phrases like "eczema friendly" or "for their skin" instead of "special soap" or "special cream".

   
   

3. Create small moments of one on one time

   A few minutes together at bedtime, a cuddle, or a simple chat about their day can help siblings feel reassured.

   
   

4. Let siblings ask questions

   Give them space to talk about what they notice, what they feel, and anything they do not understand.

   
   

5. Include them in small ways

   When appropriate, let siblings help with simple reminders or supportive routines, without making them feel responsible.

   
   

6. Keep some routines shared

   Where possible, use shared family routines or products to reduce the feeling that one child is being treated differently.

Finding time for every child

Time is often the biggest challenge for parents. The daily care involved in managing eczema can quickly add up, and before you realise it, much of your focus may be directed towards one child.

While this is often unavoidable, try to look for small opportunities to reconnect with your other children. It does not need to be anything elaborate. A few minutes of one on one time, a cuddle before bed, or a simple conversation about their day can provide reassurance and help strengthen your connection.

These moments can be particularly meaningful for younger children, who may not fully understand why their sibling needs extra care. Older children may find it easier to understand the situation, especially when they feel informed and included.

Supporting children with eczema at school

School can bring another layer of challenges. Children with eczema may feel self conscious if their skin is visible or if they need to apply moisturiser during the day.

While it is important to work with teachers to support your child’s needs, siblings can also provide quiet reassurance at school. Simply knowing they have someone looking out for them can help both children feel more confident and supported.

Final thoughts

Ultimately, there is no perfect way to manage sibling dynamics when one child has eczema. Every family is different, and there will be times when things feel out of balance.

What matters most is maintaining open communication, showing understanding, and making small, consistent efforts to ensure every child feels seen, valued and supported.

With understanding and support, having a sibling with eczema can also be an opportunity to build empathy, compassion and stronger family relationships that last well beyond childhood.

At the Eczema Association New Zealand, we’re here to support families and whānau with trusted resources, practical guidance and a caring community. If you need more advice on supporting children with eczema and helping siblings feel included, explore our website for more eczema management tips or contact us for personalised support. You’re not alone, and small steps can make a meaningful difference in helping every child in your family feel seen, supported and cared for.

Frequently asked questions

Can eczema affect siblings too?

Yes, eczema can affect the whole family. Siblings may notice that one child needs more time, care or attention, especially during flare ups or bedtime routines. Talking openly and making time for each child can help reduce feelings of confusion or exclusion.

How can I explain eczema to a sibling?

Use simple, age appropriate language. You might explain that eczema can make the skin feel itchy, sore or uncomfortable, and that skincare routines help their brother or sister feel better.

Should siblings help with eczema care?

Siblings can be included in small, age appropriate ways, but they should not feel responsible for managing eczema. Simple support, such as gentle reminders or encouragement, can help them feel involved.

Should children share eczema creams or towels?

No. Moisturisers and prescription creams should only be used by the child they are intended for, and towels or face cloths should not be shared. This helps reduce the risk of spreading skin infections.

How can I make sure siblings do not feel left out?

Small moments can make a big difference. Spending a few minutes one on one, listening to their feelings, and including them in family routines can help siblings feel loved, valued and supported.