n HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD? Children often think that something they did caused their cancer; it will help if you reinforce that this is not the case. Make sure your child understands that your feelings of anger and sadness are directed at the cancer, not at them. This will help to keep your relationship straightforward and maintain closeness. Your child will need to share their feelings with someone that they trust. Sometimes, children choose to share feelings with someone other than a parent because they are afraid they might upset the parent. Don’t be afraid to ask your child about their feelings—it may be what your child is waiting for. Also, don’t be afraid to share information with your child about what is happening and why. Sometimes, the things children imagine on their own are more frightening than what is actually happening. In spite of your child’s disease, they are still a child first. All children need love, attention, the opportunity to learn and try new skills, and limits. As your child goes through cancer treatment, they still have all the needs of a growing child. Do not avoid talking to your child about treatment. Use explanations your child will understand. Children tolerate treatment better if they understand it and if they are allowed to help make decisions about their care, when appropriate. It is difficult for parents to watch their children go through cancer treatment. Your child may sometimes seem sicker than before the treatment. Your feelings about what your child is going through during treatment must be balanced with the knowledge that treatment provides the chance of curing the disease and having your child live a full and meaningful life. It is often difficult to accept the changes your child experiences from cancer and treatment, but many of the changes, like hair loss, are temporary. Always remember: Despite outward changes your child is still the same person. n IS MY CHILD’S DIET IMPORTANT DURING TREATMENT? Yes. Research shows that well-nourished children tolerate cancer treatment better and experience fewer treatment delays. Nausea and vomiting can be a distressing side effect of treatment, and your child’s healthcare team will prescribe medications to help prevent and treat these side effects. Your child may have difficulty eating normal meals during treatment. Foods that are appealing to your child will be tolerated better. Offer foods that are high in calories, protein, and carbohydrates. Frequent small meals are often better tolerated than three larger meals. When possible, avoid junk food and foods that are high in salt. Choose more nutritious foods. If your child is on steroid medications such as prednisone or Decadron (dexamethasone), their appetite will likely be increased. While on these medicines, your child may be constantly hungry, crave unusual foods, or want one particular food constantly. Try to keep healthy snacks on hand. Steroids may cause your child to gain weight and develop a round face and puffy appearance; these side effects are temporary.
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