When your child is diagnosed with a life-altering illness like pediatric cancer, you may not know how to discuss the diagnosis with them. You may want to shield them from the news, but your little one deserves to understand why they may pay doctors and specialists frequent visits in the future. Talking with them will also prepare them for their treatment. If you need advice for sharing this information with them, here’s a guide you may find helpful.

Talking to Your Child About Pediatric Cancer 

When to Do It

If your child is around three or older, they may be able to grasp the unfamiliarity of a hospital environment, so the sooner you share the news, the better. After you’ve taken the time you need to process the information your doctor has given you—be this hours or days—sit your child down for a conversation. This will strengthen the bond and trust you share, so you can face the treatment process as a team.

How to Do It

While children of all ages have different communicative needs, simplicity will serve you best during the initial discussion. Explain to your child that they are dealing with a sickness, one that’s not contagious, but that medicine and other treatments can help them recover. Instead of going into specifics, let them ask questions, and answer them honestly. If you don’t know an answer, research it together. Leaving questions unanswered could trigger anxiety in your little one and cause them to make up their own, inaccurate ideas.

While a younger child may have never heard of cancer, those who are in elementary school or older may have heard of it before. To dispel any anxiety they may feel about what they already know, tell them that every pediatric cancer diagnosis is different, and that many kids have gotten better with medicine, surgery, or special treatments. Let them know that you and their doctors are doing everything you can to help them get better, and that you’ll always let them know what to expect from their treatment.

If your child has been diagnosed with pediatric cancer, Leaps of Love will ensure you don’t feel alone in the journey ahead. Based in Highland, IL, this nonprofit organization has been helping families affected by childhood cancer since 2010. No matter what stage of the treatment process your little one is in, you can find support through their workshops, retreats, and other family-friendly events. Visit their website to learn more about what they do, or call (618) 410-7212 to discuss your family’s needs.