What children of all ages need to know

About cancer

• Nothing your child did, thought, or said caused you to get cancer.
• You can't catch cancer from another person. Just because you have cancer does not mean that others in your family will get it, too.
• Just because you have cancer does not mean you will die from it. In fact, many people live with cancer for a long time.
• Scientists are finding many new ways to treat cancer.

About living with cancer in the family

• Your child is not alone. Other children have parents who have cancer.
• It is okay to be upset, angry, or scared about your illness.
• Your child can't do anything to change the fact that you have cancer.
• Family members may act differently because they are worried about you.
• You will make sure that your children are taken care of, no matter what happens to you.

About what they can do

• They can help you by doing nice things like washing dishes or drawing you a picture.
• They should still go to school and take part in sports and other fun activities.
• They can talk to other adults such as teachers, family members, and religious leaders.