Monday, January 6, 2014

Helping Children Cope with a Parent's Serious Illness: Resources

[Reviewed and updated December 20, 2022]

A reader writes: My daughter just recently was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). I want to know what I can do to make life easier for her and my four grandchildren. The children range in age from seven to thirteen. I understand that the kids are scared, but they are pushing everybody's boundaries at the moment, and my daughter is struggling big-time with their attitudes of defiance. I appreciate any help you can offer. Are there any resources "out there" that I should know about?

My response: I am so sorry to learn of your daughter's recent diagnosis with MS, and I can only imagine how difficult this must be for you, for your daughter and for her family.

Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you as you navigate your way through whatever lies ahead.

I've found some resources that I hope will be helpful to you (and to others reading this). Note that some refer to serious illnesses other than MS, such as cancer, and some articles are written from different points of view, but I think their content still may be relevant and useful.

Books

Helping Children Cope with Separation and Loss, Revised Edition



My Parent Has Cancer ~ Book Review


Still Mine ~ Children's Book, Ages 4-8



When Mommy Is Sick ~ Children’s Book, Ages 4 and up

When Someone Has A Very Serious Illness: Children Can Learn To Cope With Loss And Change ~ Book Review

 
Websites

MSAA Publications: Magazine, Booklets and Brochures - from Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA)




















Through The Eyes of a Child: Including Children in The Dying Experience

Tips for Talking with Children about Addiction and Overdose Loss

I'm hoping this information helps, and I am wishing peace and healing for you and your family. 

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