Children Thinking about how to talk to your children about your cancer diagnos about upsetting or frightening them - and feel that by not telling them that shows that childtren who are told about a parent’s illness cope be But how, what and when you tell them, will in part depend on how you with your child, their age and ability to understand and what experienc Children at different ages (by actual age or level of understanding • Most 3-5 year olds will have a very basic understanding of illness - t that they might have caused your cancer by being naughty. Althoug play now?” and maybe not ask many questions, their play and beha • Children aged 6-12 may be able to understand more complex inform and experiences, they too may be worried about ‘catching’ or causin cancer have died, worry that this may mean you will too. They may school activities “needing to be near you”. • Older children, particularly teenagers may have the same fears, con differently. While younger children may become more ‘clingy’ or exp themselves and may turn to friends / online forums for support and a You can help support your child / children by: • answering their questions as honestly as you can, even if they are r • asking your healthcare team about age-appropriate resources and s • maintaining, rather than relaxing, routines and boundaries • listening to their play, what they may have to say • noting any behaviour changes • allowing time to talk It may also help to let their nursery, pre-school, school or college head / class teacher know that you are dealing with cancer, they do not need to know all the details, but by being aware, they can look out for any need for additional support, or time out, for your child.
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