Children 101

Keep in mind that children are going through stress.  In addition to stress they likely feel on their own, your emotions as well as those of other members of your household filter down to them.

Expect each child's needs to be very individual.

Do not be surprised if a child's emotions surface well after a fact.  Watch for changes, such as with school grades or general interests. For information about helping children cope, click here

If your child doesn't have a pet, this may be a good time to get one. A pet can help deal with emotions. It doesn't have to be a dog or cat. (We offer tips about determining the right pet, caring for it, and traveling with it despite your health condition).

Ask for help or advice if you need it. In additional to friends and family, professional mental health therapists are available, including people who specialize in life changing conditions or children. In addition:

• Some hospitals offer programs designed to help parents. The help is often outside the hospital, for instance via the web. Help is also often individualized.
• Check with your local disease specific nonprofit organization. For instance, help is available to a parent with cancer from Cancer Support Community, (formerly The Wellness Community and Gilda's Club Worldwide): see www.TheWellnessCommunity.org or Tel. 888 793-WELL.
• Look for another parent with children similar to yours. It helps to share experiences and concerns. Your disease specific nonprofit organization can help you locate such a person.

NOTE: There are camps for children of parents with cancer. For example, see: www.campkesem.org

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