How much should I tell my children?
Children need to be told information in a way that they can understand.
- Tell them what has happened, such as some details about your illness.
- Explain what will happen next, such as how it will be treated.
- Leave them with feelings of hope that even though you are upset now, there will be better times.
- Assure them they will still be loved and cared for. Tell them who will look after them, if necessary.
- Listen to them – it lets you know what they can cope with.
- Answer their questions simply.
- Ask them what they know about your illness. Explain it as well as you can.
- Ask them if they are worried about anything in particular.
- Correct any misunderstandings they may have.
- Be honest.
- Let them know how the situation affects your feelings and emotions, as well as giving factual information about your illness and treatments. An example is that you can say you may feel more sad than normal, or may be more easily irritated.