Talking with your child

Communicating your diagnosis to family members is a crucial part of beginning your cancer journey. The challenge becomes increasingly difficult when you’re trying to navigate the discussion with your child(ren). Children of any age will be affected by a parent’s diagnosis. No matter how old your child is, cancer raises the fear that you will leave them and their family. It’s important to address this fear and let them know about any plans that have been made. Talk about your situation early, and as often as necessary, so your child’s imagination matches the reality.

Children usually have a fairly good idea of what is going on around them; not sharing honest information with them only cultivates fear and anxiety. Let your child know that some changes may be necessary. Your child may see you crying or upset from time to time. These are good times to let them know that cancer is a scary disease and that it’s okay to have strong feelings about it. It’s also a good time to reassure them that the family will work together to handle it. It creates confusion for children of any age to overhear conversations with no explanation. Be patient and remember this is a process. Give small amounts of information at a time. You know your children, so do what feels best.