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Helping your child when someone is ill When speaking with your child, use correct medical terms. Don't over explain, but be honest. Fears and fantasies are often worse than reality. If the patient has changed in physical appearance, such as noticeable weight loss, explain to the child why this has happened prior to visiting the patient. When the patient is in a hospital or nursing home, describe to the child what he or she may see. Offer the choice of a phone call, letter, or drawing if the he or she seems reluctant to visit. Reassure your child that nothing they did, or did not do, caused the illness. Some children feel guilty for things that have nothing to do with the illness. Children are very sensitive to the emotions of adults, and will respond to your emotional status, as much as to the knowledge that the person is very ill. Encourage communication. Do not assume lack of questions means lack of interest. Children are more likely to express themselves through art, play, or action rather than words. Share your feelings to help your child understand his or her feelings. By sharing, you can reassure your child that it is alright to have certain feelings. Children model coping skills and behavior from adults. Try to maintain a normal routine. Children need structure to feel secure during stressful times. They also need to be involved in appropriate ways in order to not feel left out when the focus of the family is on the patient's needs. Encourage other family members, friends, and neighbors to provide support and structure for the child when you have to provide care for the patient. Do not let the child assume the caretaker role. Some children will try to take care of the parent. Reassure them that there are things that they can do to help, but they are not expected to assume adult responsibilities. Communicate with your child's teachers and others about the changes in your child's life. They may be able to provide extra support and personal time. Children cope best by understanding. Providing some of the answers will prepare your child for the changes occurring in his or her life. Things your child can do when someone is ill The following are suggestions to help you guide your child during this difficult period. These activities help a child feel a part of the family, when someone is ill. Children respond to being needed, just as adults.
Approximate Word count = 1622
Approximate Pages = 6.5
(250 words per page double spaced)
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