Boys and girls at this age can understand what cancer is and the treatment and its stages.
- Boys and girls at this age can understand what cancer is and the treatment and its stages.
- However, they believe that cancer is contagious.
- They think a lot about life and death.
Child’s behavior and reactions:
- Feeling angry most of the time, due to frustration and the change in their daily routine; this anger can show up in front of family members.
- Hiding their feelings from their parents, thinking this protects them.
- The internal struggle between wanting to stay close to the family all the time and the desire to feel independent.
How to deal with the situation?
- Relationships are very important at this age, keep your child connected to their friends, visit them, or even stay in touch through social media.
- Never assume you know what your child is thinking; take your time observing them and listening to them until they feel comfortable talking to you and sharing their thoughts.
- Encourage your child to be independent, and make sure to involve them in treatment plans and other choices.
- A girl, especially at this age, may feel that cancer has taken away a lot of her freedom and privacy; you can give her some space and freedom as she had before treatment.
- “Before your child has to go through something painful, like a shot or blood test, it’s important to prepare them. Don’t surprise them! If you don’t prepare a child, they may feel anxious or scared.
- Even babies can be prepared for something that might hurt. You can hold them gently, sing to them, or talk softly to them. This can help them feel calmer and more relaxed.”
