A diagnosis of cancer can turn your world upside down. Learning about your illness and treatment options can be overwhelming, not to mention trying to maintain a sense of normalcy within your family. While adults can more easily manage life changes, children often have difficulty understanding what is happening to their family:

• Daily routines change
• Additional caretakers may be in the home
• A parent may be away from home for hospital stays and treatments
• Activities may be temporarily curtailed

An illness in the family can make children feel "different" from their peers, when for the first time they are faced with fear and uncertainty about the future.

Bear Essentials created a collection of activities for children to help your family navigate through the thoughts and feelings associated with cancer and its treatment. Our activities are divided into 10 themes that compare to the most common emotions experienced by children of cancer patients. Through simple crafts, drawing, writing and play we hope to help you open the doors of communication and expression. Our activities were designed for children four through 12.

Use our activities as a guide, and keep in mind that parents are always the best teachers. No special skills are required -- just love and understanding. There is no right or wrong way to proceed. Keep your discussions short, maybe 15 minutes at a time. Use the activities as needed, when the time is right. Pick and choose the activities that are appropriate for your family.

Cancer patients and their children can get a tremendous benefit out of sharing their feelings with others going through the same experience. Check with your physician, with a nurse or social worker at your local hospital or with the American Cancer Society for information about additional support groups in your area.

Find out about Additional Resources that may be of assistance to your family.

We wish you our best and hope our activities are helpful for you and your children.