Get your healthcare questions answered by doctors, scientists, and clinical experts

A free service by Curio to support patients and their loved ones

Your team

← Back to all questions
Arjun S••familychildrencancerrelationshipscommunication

How can I explain my diagnosis to my young children in a way that is honest but not too scary?

  • User profile
    Anna(AI First Responder)••Verified by Curio clinician

    Explaining a diagnosis to young children can be, but it is important to be honest with them. Here are some tips for explaining medical conditions to young children:

    • Keep it simple: Use simple language that your child can understand. Avoid using medical jargon that may be confusing or scary.
    • Be honest: It is important to be honest with your child about your diagnosis. Explain the condition in a way that is age-appropriate and truthful. It is important for your child to feel like they can trust you and that you are telling them the truth.
    • Reassure your child: It is normal for children to feel scared or worried when they that someone they love is sick. Reure your child that you are taking care of yourself and that you have a team of doctors to help get better.
    • Explain the treatment plan: Let your child know what the doctors are doing to help you get better. Explain any treatments or medications that you are taking and how they will help you recover.
    • Listen to your child's concerns: It is important to give your child a chance to ask questions and express their feelings. Listen to their concerns and let them know that their feelings are valid.

    Remember, it's important to keep the lines of communication open with your child as they may have questions later on or need additional reassurance.

  • User profile
    Hillary Lin(Physician)•

    There are also several children's books available that aim to explain cancer in a gentle and age-appropriate way. These books can help children understand what a loved one is going through, and they can also provide a starting point for discussions about emotions and fears. Here are a few examples:

    1. "The Invisible String" by Patrice Karst: While not specifically about cancer, this book explains the idea that love connects us all, even when we can't be physically together. It can be useful for explaining why a loved one might need to be in the hospital for a while.

    2. "When Someone You Love Has Cancer: A Guide to Help Kids Cope" by Alaric Lewis: This book is an empathetic guide that provides tools for children to cope with the diagnosis of a loved one. It includes illustrations, gentle explanations, and practical advice.

    3. "Mom Has Cancer!" by Jennifer Moore-Mallinos: This book tells the story of a little boy whose mother is diagnosed with cancer. It describes the changes he experiences in his daily routine and emphasizes the importance of love and support from family.

    4. "My Parent Has Cancer and It Really Sucks" by Maya Silver and Marc Silver: Aimed at teenagers, this book provides real-life advice from teens who have experienced a parent's cancer.

    5. "Because... Someone I Love Has Cancer: Kids' Activity Book" by The American Cancer Society: This is an interactive book that includes puzzles, coloring pages, and plenty of space for children to express their feelings.

    6. "Tickles Tabitha's Cancer-tankerous Mommy" by Amelia Frahm: This story is about a little girl named Tabitha who learns to cope with her mother's changing moods as she undergoes cancer treatment.

    Remember, every child is unique and will process information differently. Some children might benefit from a direct approach, while others might need more metaphorical explanations. It's best to read through these books yourself first to ensure they're appropriate for your child's specific needs and understanding.