Loved ones who have just undergone a cancer diagnosis may experience varying emotions. During this sensitive period, doctors usually recommend that patients have a primary caretaker in their home (like a spouse) and a supporting network (i.e., friends and family).
For the latter, a support network can be a group of people of different ages. As long as they are important to the patient and are willing to help, they can become an integral part of a patient's care network.
In a way, young children can offer emotional support by showing they care. Some of these examples include the following:
1. Making cards or other types of gifts. Doing craft projects can be a great way to spend time with children. Providing them with tasks like making an encouraging card or a nice drawing, the patient may find their spirits lifted, while children may feel more helpful.
2. Provide a listening ear. Teaching children the art of listening can be a gift that ensures their success in relationships. When a person learns to listen, they show respect and care for the person who is talking. By letting children listen to a patient's stories and allowing them to ask questions, families may find that this simple act of communication can bring families closer.
3. Offer to tag along for shopping or other tasks.
Spending time together outside the home can be a great way to destress and add some exercise to your routine. Whether that activity involves going to the mall for shopping headscarves or getting some fresh air, bringing a child along can help you bond and grow closer.
Bottomline: Children are more attuned to their emotions than we think. When a person takes the time to educate them on cancer and how it's treated, many will find that children can be one of the most important members of any cancer support network.
- by Diane Davies, author, Jeannie Ann's Grandma Has Breast Cancer
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