Cancer is a complex topic, even more so for children. Whether they’re facing their own diagnosis, have a family member battling cancer, or are simply curious, finding reliable information can be challenging. And in today’s digital age, where information is readily available at our fingertips, many children will take to the internet looking for answers about their diagnosis. It’s very apparent that empowering kids to find credible cancer resources and verifying the accuracy of the information they find is critical. Here are some tips to help guide children in navigating the vast sea of information to find resources they can trust.

NOTE: Remind children that information they find online and in print is a tool to help them learn more about their diagnosis. But it should never replace their doctor’s advice.

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, the impact is profound. Consequently, every aspect of their life endures an overwhelming transformation. Not only do they experience a physical and emotional toll, but their educational journey can often become disrupted. Prolonged hospital stays, endless hours in waiting rooms, and treatments and their debilitating side effects can swiftly disrupt the child’s academic progress. But, on the positive side, laptops are emerging as powerful tools to help bridge the educational gap for children with cancer.

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, not only is the patient’s life turned upside down but so are the lives of family members.  Consequently, siblings may feel a range of emotions such as fear, anger, sadness, anxiety, jealousy, or guilt as they are responding to their sibling’s cancer diagnosis. Navigating these emotions and adjusting to the changes brought about by their sibling’s illness can be particularly challenging.  And these responses will alter as they continue to adjust to the ongoing changes cancer brings.

Being a parent is already an incredibly demanding role, and when your child has cancer, your world can become an unimaginable tidal wave.  While your child’s well-being is unquestionably your highest priority, it’s just as important to take care of yourself. Granted, self-care when your child has cancer isn’t easy when all your energy and attention is focused on your child. But it’s an absolute necessity.  It’s important because in order to offer your child the best possible care, you need to be healthy and well yourself, both physically and emotionally.

Photo by Sixteen Miles on Unsplash

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, their world can quickly become confined to hospital rooms and treatment centers. During this challenging time, it’s important to create a healing environment that promotes their well-being and supports their emotional and physical recovery. As a matter of fact, one great way to achieve this is by bringing nature inside!  Here are some ideas on how families can incorporate nature into their child’s surroundings.  This can help lift their spirits, reduce stress, and even enhance their healing process.