A Difficult Discussion TALKING TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT CANCER
As pink-clad products line store shelves this October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, children are bound to be curious. Since they rationalize the world around them with what they already know, kids may ask silly questions like, “Is cancer contagious?” Whether you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer or you just feel it’s time to educate your children about the disease, answering questions can be difficult. These tips can help you prepare. ALWAYS TELL THE TRUTH Telling a child that you or a loved one has cancer can be complicated. To start, the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends giving yourself time after hearing the news of a cancer diagnosis to process this new reality. Two-parent households should tell their children together, while single parents are encouraged to ask an adult with a positive influence on the child’s life to join the conversation. Remember, your child will be experiencing the same emotions as you but in a kid’s body, where hormones and developmental changes are already wreaking havoc. Monitor their emotions and offer them space and opportunities to discuss their feelings with a professional.
while older kids may need more comprehensive answers to their
questions. A 5-year-old is going to have different concerns than a 16-year-old, so your approach must be different. However, regardless of your child’s age, always tell the truth.
Meliha (after chemo) & Jacob
FOCUS ON PREVENTION EDUCATION A loved one doesn’t have to be diagnosed with cancer for you to educate your family about the disease and its prevention. Studies have linked prevention efforts, including anti-smoking campaigns and healthy lifestyle programs, to actually preventing cancer. (In fact, half of all cancers can be prevented!) Teach your child about the dangers of tobacco, alcohol, and excessive sun exposure to foster healthy habits and lifestyles. Organizations that host walks, benefits, and other events for cancer prevention and research can be great sources of education for families, too.
The ACS has resources for families living with cancer or those wanting to learn more. Visit Cancer.org for more information.
When it comes to explaining the disease and its consequences, younger children may require fewer details and broader concepts,
Helpful Tips
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TO HAVE FUN AND STAY SAFE THIS HALLOWEEN!
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SAFE COSTUME OPTIONS When picking out or making a costume, it’s crucial that it fits the body correctly. Any costume that is too tight will restrict movement, and if it’s too big, the extra fabric can create a tripping hazard. Kids Worldwide recommends using face paint instead of masks, as paint won’t narrow your child’s field of vision. It’s also a good idea to place reflective stickers or tape on the costume to help improve visibility. Halloween, drivers must be extra careful. It’s best to get all your errands done earlier in the day and avoid driving if possible. However, if you find yourself in desperate need of a candy restock, make sure to drive slowly through neighborhoods, take extra time to look for people who might be crossing the street in front of or behind you, and make sure there’s nothing to distract you while you’re driving. FOR DRIVERS Given the number of people walking on sidewalks during
Halloween is an exciting holiday for kids who are eager to dress up as their favorite princess, hero, or ghost. While trick-or-treating is on the forefront of everyone’s mind, safety needs to be the main priority for kids and adults alike. THE DANGERS OF HALLOWEEN Practicing safety with your kids can be essential this Halloween. Kids Worldwide states that the chances a child will be hit by a car are higher on this night than on any other night of the year. By taking precautionary steps early, you can ensure the safety of your children throughout this highly anticipated holiday. STREET SAFETY TIPS Make sure your kids know what the lights on the back of a car mean. Teach them never to walk behind a vehicle that has reverse lights on and what to do when a driver is using their turn signal. It’s imperative that children look both ways before crossing the street, always heed traffic signals, use crosswalks, and never run across the street. Don’t forget to tell them the importance of making eye contact with a driver before walking in front of their vehicle.
By following these helpful tips, both you and your family can have a fun and safe Halloween this year!
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