Five years ago, our world tilted on its axis. The word “cancer” entered our vocabulary in a way we never imagined. Fear collided with a fierce need to protect our children, and a crucial question loomed: how do we talk to them about this?

Just recently, the news of Kate Middleton’s diagnosis with cancer has shone a spotlight on this very issue.  Many families are facing similar situations, and having open conversations with children is crucial for their well-being.

Looking back, those initial conversations were just the beginning.

Lessons Learned about Talking about Cancer

Honesty is Key: Kids are perceptive. Shielding them from the truth creates confusion and fuels anxiety. Age-appropriate honesty builds trust and allows them to process the situation.

One Talk Isn’t Enough: This isn’t a one-and-done conversation. Cancer is a journey, and with it comes questions. Be prepared to have multiple talks, addressing their evolving concerns.

Tailor it to Their Age: A five-year-old needs a simpler explanation than a teenager. Use language they understand, answer their questions directly, and validate their feelings.

Listen More Than You Speak: This is their experience too. Create a safe space for them to express fears, sadness, or anger. Let them know it’s okay to feel everything.

Empowerment Through Knowledge: Knowing is half the battle. Age-appropriate resources like children’s books and websites can help them understand the disease and feel a sense of control.

Remember, You’re Not Alone: Talking to a therapist specializing in childhood illness can provide invaluable support for you and your children.

Talking to Your Kids about Cancer

Having an open conversation about a family member’s cancer diagnosis and Treatment can be difficult, but it’s crucial for their well-being. Here are some tips, tailored to their age group, along with ways to navigate specific concerns:

Preschoolers (ages 3-5)

• Keep it Simple and Positive: Focus on the fact that their loved one isn’t feeling well and needs special medicine from doctors to help them get better.
• Visual Aids: Use stuffed animals or dolls to represent the loved one and the “bad cells” (cancer). Explain how the medicine will fight them off.
• Reassurance is Key: Emphasize that their loved one still loves them very much and will feel better soon. Address any fears of abandonment directly.
• Prepare for Hospital Stays: If your loved one will be in the hospital, explain it in terms they understand. Maybe it’s a “special sleepover” at the doctor’s house to get extra help feeling better.

Elementary School Aged (ages 6-10)

• Honesty with Age-Appropriate Language: Use the word “cancer” but explain it in a way they can understand. You could say it’s when some cells grow too fast and need to be stopped.
• Address Specific Questions: Be prepared to answer questions about symptoms, treatment, and potential side effects. Use clear, honest language, but avoid overwhelming details.
• Emphasize Treatment and Hope: Explain how the medicine will help their loved one get better. Share stories of people who have successfully overcome cancer to foster optimism.
• Prepare for Changes: Let them know their daily routine might change due to appointments or recovery. Involve them in making adjustments.

Teenagers (ages 11 and up)

• Open and Honest Communication: Teens crave honesty. Be upfront about the diagnosis, treatment plan, and potential outcomes. Encourage them to ask questions and express their feelings openly.
• Allow for Space: Teens may react in different ways. Some might need space to process, while others might want to talk constantly. Respect their individual needs and offer support.
• Validate Their Emotions: Let them know it’s okay to feel scared, angry, or frustrated. Encourage them to express their emotions in healthy ways.
• Addressing Difficult Topics: Be prepared to discuss mortality and potential long-term effects. Answer honestly but sensitively, focusing on hope, resilience, and the strength of your family unit.

Addressing Specific Concerns

• Fear of Contagion: Reassure them cancer isn’t contagious. Explain it’s an issue with their loved one’s own cells, not something they can catch.
• Changes in Appearance: Talk about potential side effects of treatment like hair loss or fatigue. You can say, “Their medicine might make them look a little different, but they’ll still be the same person we love.”
• Changes in Routine: Explain how their daily routine might change due to appointments or recovery. Involve them in making adjustments, giving

This journey can be daunting, but open communication will help your children feel supported and empowered as your family member or friend undergoes cancer treatment. Remember, you’re not alone.

The post 5 Years Out: Reflections on Talking to Kids about Cancer appeared first on Dr. Ari Yares - Licensed Psychologist.