How to Help Children Cope When Living With Cancer

Cancer is a word that strikes fear into the hearts of many, and when a child is diagnosed with the disease, parents may be unsure of what to say. No matter the child's age, experts agree that telling the truth is the best policy and helps children trust in their caregivers. Using simple, factual terms to explain cancer to small children and concrete specifics for older children and teens ensures that children will know what to expect when it comes to their diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

Instructions

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      Decide what to tell the child soon after his diagnosis. Concealing the truth about a child's condition may cause him to worry or imagine things are worse than they really are, or lead to feelings of stress or guilt, according to the National Cancer Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health. Though parents may find it challenging to give their child information about his illness, NCI suggests they can enlist the child's doctor, nurse or social worker for assistance.

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      Relate appropriate information to children depending upon their ages. NCI advises that hildren younger than 2 do not understand cancer, as they cannot see or feel it. Parents can be truthful with young children and give them choices when they can. Young ones ages 2 to 7 may believe that they will get better if they follow certain rules. Parents can use simple terms to explain the illness and emphasize that the illness is not a punishment. From ages 7 to 12, children can begin to understand the connection between things and events. Parents can give details when explaining the illness, using terms and situations the child is used to. Older children and teens are capable of more abstract thought and can understand the reason for their symptoms.

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      Tell the truth. Children living with cancer need to understand that the disease is not their fault, according to NCI. Children who understand the nature of their condition, where the cancer is located and what treatment measures will take place are often more cooperative with medical professionals. Being truthful about upcoming hospital visits and potentially painful treatments enables children to trust their caregivers and express their emotions during a difficult time.

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      Encourage questions. Cancer is a frightening diagnosis, and children may want to know exactly what will happen to their bodies. Some may question why they got sick, and if they will ever get better. If children ask questions that parents cannot answer, the family can consult their medical professionals for assistance, advises a booklet on the website of Cancercare, a national nonprofit organization that provides free professional support services to anyone affected by cancer.

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      Spend time together as a family. Something as simple as sitting together while watching television or talking about a child's day can help families retain a sense of togetherness. Talking about a child's hobbies and interests can help her relax and take her mind off her illness.

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      Encourage expression. Children may not be able to convey their feelings verbally, but they still need an outlet during this emotional time. Arts and crafts are a therapeutic way for children to communicate their feelings, while older children may feel better when they write their feelings down on paper.

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      Have a support network. Cancercare suggests that a collection of doctors, religious leaders, counselors, family friends and relatives can play a vital part in a child's treatment and recovery process, and provide support for a family in crisis. When children need a listening ear, a support network can provide trusted adults for answers and reassurance.

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