HOW CAN I HELP?

How can I help Mum, Dad or Carer?

It might feel weird to be looking after someone else in your family… especially when they usually look after you. It’s okay to have lots of different feelings about this. You can talk with someone you trust, or if you need someone to talk to, you can ring Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.

 

HOW CAN I HELP MUM, DAD OR CARER?

Have Things To Do

Someone with cancer may need to see a doctor at the hospital sometimes – and you may need to go with them. There can be lots of waiting time! Take a quiet game or craft activity that you and your family only do when you visit the hospital… what ideas do you have?

Help Out

Talk to your family about a plan for how to help when the person you care about is in pain or feels sick. In some families, your job might be to help out with chores a bit more, or to call someone who can come over and help.
If you’re worried about what is happening with your parent or carer, you can talk with someone you trust, or if you need someone to talk to, you can ring Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.

Say 'I Love You'

Let them know you love them! Have a chat about how you feel and ask questions.
And remember, it’s also okay to feel grumpy, or not want to talk about it sometimes. Everyone needs their own space now and then.

Make A Gift

Show them how you feel – draw a picture, write a poem, find your favourite photos and share them with the person you care about. You could even make a music playlist for them to listen to when they need to relax or stay in hospital!

Celebrate Good Things

Do fun stuff as a family when you can. Go to the park or have a cake to celebrate when chemo is over! Plans might have to change sometimes, but that’s okay. Camp Quality also run fun events for families living with cancer in Australia – Mum, Dad or the person you care about can call them for info on 1300 662 267.

Take Pictures

Sometimes people living with cancer will have to miss special events (like school concerts) because they’re in hospital, or not feeling well. Take pictures and videos where you can, so you can show them what you did!

We would love to hear from you

To help us improve we would really appreciate your feedback regarding your Kids' Guide to Cancer experience.

Complete Our Survey