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A particularly difficult moment for parents of children with cancer is when they must talk to their children about the diagnosis. This situation can be complicated and devastating for both.<\/p>\n

First and foremost, it is crucial to consult with your doctor about the best approach to share the news with your child. The child’s age should also be taken into consideration.<\/p>\n

How to Explain What Cancer Is to a Child<\/h2>\n

As a first step, parents must thoroughly understand the diagnosis before considering how to explain what cancer is to a child.<\/p>\n

It is also important not to underestimate children, as they do sense when something is wrong and could end up imagining scenarios that are just as distressing for them.<\/p>\n

Depending on their age group, specific steps can be taken while also considering potential fears that may not necessarily arise at other stages.<\/p>\n

Infants and Toddlers (0 to 2 Years)<\/strong><\/p>\n

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• Explain the types of procedures they will undergo at the hospital using the simplest words possible.<\/li>\n
• Ensure they feel sheltered and protected both inside and outside the hospital.<\/li>\n
• By comforting them after any procedure, you will help them face their emotions without fear.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

  Young Children (2 to 7 Years)<\/strong><\/p>\n

  \n
  • Use simple terms and explain that all human beings are made of cells, but some cells grow out of control, and those are the ones affecting us.<\/li>\n
  • Dispel any feelings of guilt associated with their illness.<\/li>\n
  • Explain procedures and tests before arriving.<\/li>\n
  • As much as possible, try to "reward" their efforts during treatment and show them how their health improves with each visit.<\/li>\n
  • Your child must understand that, just like you, the doctors and nursing staff will be by their side throughout their treatment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Older Children (7 to 12 Years)<\/strong><\/p>\n

    \n
    • As they connect their physical limitations to their illness, children in this age group are more open to discussing their emotions.<\/li>\n
    • They can follow a routine, especially when they know a treatment can improve their health.<\/li>\n
    • It is important to reassure them regarding information they might see on social media or television about cancer, which could cause confusion.<\/li>\n
    • Encourage them to discuss any questions or doubts about their diagnosis with you and their doctors.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Adolescents (12+ Years)<\/strong><\/p>\n

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      • Talk openly with your teenager about their concerns and fears.<\/li>\n
      • At this stage, it is possible to seek support from specialized sources and resources designed specifically for teens.<\/li>\n
      • By following a care routine and being conscious of it, you can approach the topic from a broader perspective.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Advice on How to Care for a Child with Cancer<\/h2>\n

        We often try to "protect" children in these situations, which can lead to withholding the truth or avoiding discussions about what lies ahead. However, it is essential to learn how to properly approach a child with cancer.<\/p>\n

        Honesty is a matter of great importance. Once the parents or primary caregivers come to terms with the situation, they should explain what is happening\u2014in one or several conversations\u2014depending on the child’s level of maturity.<\/p>\n

        Keep in mind that the child may already know someone who had a family member with cancer. If things are not explained clearly and honestly, they might interpret their situation based on what they heard about other cases.<\/p>\n

        Fear stems from different sources and is perceived differently depending on the child’s age. Younger children may fear feeling pain, whereas teenagers may fear the disease itself because they know more about it.<\/p>\n

        Another crucial point for parents to remember is maintaining trust. Parents often lie to children in an effort to protect them; however, when the truth comes out, trust can be broken and the parent-child relationship damaged.<\/p>\n

        Although cancer is a serious illness, it is important to keep children active whenever possible throughout their treatment, rather than staying exclusively in bed or indoors.<\/p>\n

        Games and Activities for Children with Cancer<\/h2>\n

        Games and activities are wonderful tools to keep a child distracted and active.<\/p>\n

        Keep in mind that each child’s activity level will depend on their specific medical situation, the type of cancer they are facing, and their age.<\/p>\n

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        • Drawing is a fantastic tool that keeps children distracted without requiring much physical exertion.<\/li>\n
        • Low-intensity physical activities can also be introduced when appropriate.<\/li>\n
        • Crafts, music, watching TV, or cooking activities can help keep the child entertained and feeling engaged.<\/li>\n
        • Video games offer a form of play that does not require heavy physical effort and can easily be enjoyed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          It is important to speak with your child’s doctor to understand any physical limitations they may have, as well as to get guidance on what to discuss with them and how to approach it.<\/p>\n

          At the Pediatric Oncology Department at Centro M\u00e9dico ABC, we offer specialized care and support for parents of children with cancer. Contact us today!<\/p>\n

          Fuentes:<\/strong>
          \nAmerican Cancer Society<\/a>, NCI<\/a>
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          [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] A particularly difficult moment for parents of children with cancer is when they must talk to their children about the diagnosis. This situation can be complicated and devastating for both. First and foremost, it is crucial to consult with your doctor about the best approach to share the news with your child. The child’s […]<\/p>\n

          Read More… from Childhood cancer: help your children understand their condition<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":25,"featured_media":275379,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[947,3002],"tags":[3283,3336],"class_list":["post-82651","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-digital-magazine","category-pediatrics","tag-healthy-living","tag-pediatria-en"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n