Macmillan Cancer Support has reissued advice on how to tell children you have cancer, after the Princess of Wales announced she is undergoing chemotherapy.
The charity said it was “sending our best wishes” after she confirmed the diagnosis following her abdominal surgery in January.
Macmillan said in a statement: “We are sending our best wishes to Her Royal Highness the Princess of Wales.
“We hear from people all over the country, every day going through the experience the Princess has described, and our thoughts are also with His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales and their children. Many families will be sending solidarity to them.
“If you need to talk to young children about cancer, or are worried about signs and symptoms, we can help.”
Here is the charity’s advice on how to tell children the news.
How do I tell my children about a cancer diagnosis?
Who should be there?
If you are a two-parent family, the best way is with the other parent, but this depends on how you communicate as a family. For single-parent families, you can either tell them on your own if you feel able to, or do it alongside a person your child knows and trusts. Do whatever feels right for you.
What is the best time and place?
It is best to tell all your children at the same time, and if you have to tell them separately, do it as close together as possible as some children may wonder why they were told last. Try to avoid only telling older children, as this can burden them.
How much should I tell?
It is best to be honest with children, as if they think you’re being vague or hiding something they may find it hard to believe they are being told the truth. It is advisable not to make things sound less serious than they are.
How should I explain a cancer diagnosis?
Use clear language and short sentences, and keep information relevant to the current situation rather than how things may pan out in the future.
Be prepared for children to react in their own way, and ask them if there is anything else they want to know, explain how their lives and routines may be affected, and repeat the information to younger children as they may not understand or absorb all the information.
How do I explain to younger children?
Children under 10 often worry more after being told the news. It’s good to reassured them that they didn’t cause the illness and cannot catch it; that there will always be someone there to take care of them; that they can ask you questions and talk to you about how they feel; and that you will listen to their worries and help them cope.
For more information visit Macmillan Cancer Support
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