Autism has become the fastest-growing developmental disability in North America. But for every child who is treated for autism, there are often many more who have to learn to deal with the disorder.

They are the brothers and sisters of autistic children. But a new, innovative program is helping siblings cope.

Ten-year-old Emily Carder cherishes quiet times with her kid sister. But it isn't always this way -- six-year-old Anna has autism, and playtime can sometimes turn aggressive.

Because of that, Anna spends 45 hours a week either in special classes or working with therapists.

"If she has down time, she's doing something inappropriate. The whole idea with kids with autism, with having the intensive therapy that many hours a week is changing the behaviour," said Angie Carder, the pair's mother.

In most cases, changing that behaviour takes a lot of resources -- like time, money and attention -- which often leave less time for siblings like Emily.

But innovative programs, like one at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Ohio, are helping. It focuses on the other kids who are dealing with autism. They are the siblings who learn to cope quietly.

"These kids are not spending every day talking about these issues and a lot of time they haven't even spent a lot of time thinking about these issues, but it is hitting them every day," said Dr. Jacquie Wynn of the Nationwide Children's Hospital.

The program is different than most because it is ongoing -- allowing kids to get to know others who are facing the same issues and can learn together how to adjust.

"It is fun and active but it allows for honest, open discussions about the issues of having a sibling with autism."

Emily has been coming to the program for weeks, and in that time has learned to focus less on what frustrates her about her sister and more about the things she loves about her.

"She's really improving, she's giving lots of kisses and hugs. I think my sister is the best autistic kid there could ever be."

This program is based on the Sibshops curriculum, part of a North American project dedicated to helping the siblings of those with disabilities. It uses games and activities to help kids explore feelings and share emotions and experiences.

Click here to find locations in B.C. for Sibshops-based programs for brothers and sisters of disabled kids.

With a report from CTV British Columbia's Dr. Rhonda Low