Talking to children about cancer

For people with cancer and their families

We know that talking to children about cancer can be challenging. It can be hard to know what to say. You may not know how the child will react.

We can help you find information and support from trusted resources. These resources can give you tips and strategies to help you talk to children about cancer.

Here are some tips and strategies*:

• Think about what you want to say. Practice saying it ahead of time. Try to use simple and direct words.

• Allow the child to ask questions. Use this time to correct any wrong information.

• Give comfort and reassure the child they will be taken care of. Let them know you are here for them if they have questions.

These questions have been adapted from the Canadian Cancer Society. Original article: https://cancer.ca/en/living-with-cancer/coping-with-changes/talking-about-cancer/talking-to-children-about-cancer

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