HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD?
As a parent, you will often notice changes in your child during treatment for cancer. These changes or symptoms can make you feel even more helpless. It is important to remember that, in spite of changes on the outside, your child is still the same person on the inside. Hair loss and other changes in body appearance are temporary. They often bother the adults involved much more than the child or their siblings and friends. All of your feelings about what your child is going through during treatment for cancer must be balanced by remembering that treatment provides an opportunity to cure the disease and to have your child go on to live a full and meaningful life. It is important to reinforce to your child that nothing he or she did or said caused this disease. Telling your child that your angry or sad feelings are directed at the cancer, not at him or her, will help preserve honesty and closeness in your relationship. Don’t hesitate to ask your child to express his or her feelings, and don’t be afraid to explain what is happening and why. In spite of the disease, your child is still developing and learning. All children—sick and well—need love, attention, discipline, limits, and the opportunity to learn new skills and try new activities. As you begin to learn about your child’s new needs, it is important to remember that he or she still has all the rights of any growing, developing person. Many patients with rare tumors are adolescents, and this requires special considerations. Do not avoid using direct terms and explanations. Children will tolerate treatment better if they understand it and are allowed to be active decision makers whenever possible. The same is true for parents.
IS MY CHILD’S DIET IMPORTANT DURING TREATMENT?
Yes. We know from research that well-nourished children tolerate therapy better and have fewer treatment delays because of illness. It may be difficult for your child to resume normal eating habits while receiving therapy, so you will need to be flexible and creative. Children’s food preferences and tastes may change throughout therapy. Often, numerous small meals are easier to tolerate than three large ones. Children usually are more interested in eating foods that they help prepare. It is important to include your child in the social activity of family meals even if full meals aren’t eaten. Remember, nobody wins food fights—it is best not to force your child to eat. Make sure that foods high in protein and carbohydrates are readily available. Multivitamins, herbs, and all other medicines should be approved by your healthcare team before you give them to your child because they may interact with the chemotherapy medications. A dietitian trained in the energy needs of children with cancer can offer you guidance. The medical staff can intervene if there is a nutritional problem.
CAN MY CHILD ATTEND SCHOOL DURING TREATMENT?
Your child’s ability to attend school will depend on the intensity of the therapy and his or her response to treatment. Some children tolerate chemotherapy and radiation better than others. Your child may not be able to attend school for extended periods because of treatment or hospitalization. However, it is important that your child keep up with his or her schoolwork. Talk to staff at your child’s school about arranging services, including help from a home tutor, until he or she is able to return to school. You also should discuss school
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