Resources to help children
Children respond to a parent's illness in a variety of ways. How they respond will depend, in part, on their age group. Even though it can be difficult, it's better to tell the children what's happening to you. Use language they can understand. This gives them the opportunity to ask questions, and talk about their fears. If you don't tell them, it's inevitable that they will hear the news from someone else. A common concern for parents is what, how and how much to tell the children. The following resources may help. If you come across other useful resources please let us know
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Books and brochures
When a parent has cancer: How to talk to your kids. (Australian)
Author/ Publisher: The Cancer Council New South Wales
Available from: Cancer Councils 13 11 20
Description: This book has been written for people with cancer who have children. It has been written with the newly diagnosed person in mind, but will still be useful for people who have had cancer for some time. It may also help people with cancer who are grandparents. Parents who have cancer helped ensure this book deals with the main issues they faced, and continue to face, in communicating with their children about cancer.
What Will I Tell the Children? Information for Parents Who Have Been Told They Have Cancer (Australian)
Author/ Publisher: Cynthia Holland and Nicole Vanos/ The Cancer Council Victoria
Available from: Cancer Councils 13 11 20
Description: This brochure describes ways to talk to children about cancer, with specific suggestions for all age groups, from infancy to 18 years. Free
My Mum's Got Cancer (Australian)
Author/Publisher: Cynthia Holland and Nicole Vanos/ The Cancer Council Victoria
Available from: Cancer Councils 13 11 20
Description: This brochure outlines what cancer is and how it is treated in very simple language. It also addresses some of the common concerns children have at such times. For ages 5 to 10 years. Free
What Is Happening to My Mummy? (Australian)
Author/Publisher: Noela Moran/ Cancer Council Queensland
Available from: Cancer Council Queensland 13 11 20 (in Qld) or (07) 3258 2200 (other States)
Description: This colouring book is to help children with a parent who has cancer to understand about cancer treatments. Useful if a parent or family member helps the child to work through the book. For ages 4 to 8 years. Published 2002. Free
What about Me? For Children when a Parent has Cancer (Australian)
Author/Publisher: The Cancer Council South Australia
Available from: Cancer Councils 13 11 20
Description: Presented in comic strip format, this booklet is for children to read alone or with a parent. It provides basic, factual information and explores the possible feelings, fears and concerns faced by children who have a parent with cancer. It can be used as a starting point for exploring issues and aswering questions. Published 1999. Free
She's Got What? (Australian)
Author/Publisher: Carrie Lethborg and Angela Kirsner/ St. Vincent's Hospital Oncology Unit
Available from: St. Vincent's Hospital Foundation (03) 9288 3365
Description: This book deals with some of the issues which arise when a mother becomes seriously ill. An effective tool for helping children to discuss their concerns and fears, the book uses storytelling to create events and characters they can respond to, talk about and learn from.
When a Parent Has Cancer: A Guide to Caring for Your Children Author/Publisher: Wendy Schlessel Harpham/ Harper Collins
Available from: Bookstores/libraries or www.everycloud.com
Description: Drawing from her experiences both as a physician and someone with cancer, the author provides practical advice on caring for children of all ages during diagnosis and treatment. She also provides helpful insights for helping them cope with grief, loss, uncertainty and fear of death. The accompanying story for children - Becky and the worry cup - illustrates their concerns and how parents can help them cope. US, published 1997.
Safina and the Hat Tree (Australian)
Author/Publisher: Cynthia Hartman/Nomota
Available from: www.talesforkids.com.au or 9 Sperry St Wollongong NSW 2500
Description: This picture book helps introduce the concept of cancer to young children. Safina confronts her cancer with the help of her family, dog Reuben and her sense of humour. Together with the children at school, she embarks on a journey of fun and hope through the use of a collection of hats from her hat tree. Ages 4 to 7 years
Websites
My Parents Cancer (Australian)
www.myparentscancer.com.au
An interactive website for 13 to 19 year olds. To help families communicate about cancer and assist young people with their emotions.
CanTeen (Australian)
www.canteen.org.au or 1800 639 614
CanTeen, the Australian organisation for young people living with cancer, now offers support for young people (12 to 24 years) whose parents have had a cancer diagnosis. Members are able to participate in camps, recreation days, seminars, workshops and most importantly share their hopes and fears, partake in decision making, meet new friends and have fun together.
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