- Home
- Breast cancer
- Breast cancer diagnosis with young children
Breast cancer diagnosis with young children
Keep your explanation simple and honest, keep routines where you can, and ask your team about support for talking with children. You do not have to do this alone, and many hospitals offer help.
Talking with children
- Use simple words and short answers.
- Tell them it is not their fault and that they will be looked after.
- Let them ask questions over time.
- Ask your team or a counsellor for guidance for your children's ages.
Keep routines
Keep meals, bedtimes and school as steady as possible. Tell the school, so they can support your children.
Get practical help
- One person for lifts and childcare.
- Ask about social workers and local support.
- Accept offers, and give people specific tasks.
Look after yourself
Tell your team how you are coping. See first week after diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell my young children?
Use simple, honest words and reassure them. Ask your team for guidance.
Should I tell their school?
It often helps, so staff can support them.
Where can I get support?
Ask your team about counsellors, social workers and peer groups.
For information only, not medical advice. For information only, not medical advice. Follow your care team's guidance, and use the number you were given for anything urgent.