The short answer
When a child has cancer, brothers and sisters have their own fears and needs. Keeping them informed, keeping routines where possible, and giving them time and reassurance helps them cope. Many hospitals offer sibling support programs.
Siblings of a child with cancer often feel worried, left out, jealous, or guilty.
Honest, age-appropriate information helps siblings, just as it helps the patient.
Keeping familiar routines and staying connected helps siblings feel secure.
Reassure siblings that the cancer is not contagious and not their fault.
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The full explanation.
The simple version
When one child has cancer, their brothers and sisters have their own worries and needs. They may feel scared, left out, jealous of the attention, or guilty for having those feelings. Keeping siblings informed and connected helps them cope.
Keep them informed
Honest, age-appropriate information helps siblings just as it helps the child who is sick. Let them ask questions, and reassure them that cancer is not contagious and that nothing they did caused it. Without information, children often imagine something worse.
Cancer is not contagious, and it is not the siblings' fault.
Keep routines and connection
Try to keep familiar routines where you can — school, meals, bedtime — because routine helps children feel secure. Spend one-on-one time when possible, and find small ways for siblings to help and stay connected, such as making cards or visiting when it is allowed.
Find extra support
Many children's hospitals offer sibling support programs, groups, and activities designed just for brothers and sisters. Ask your care team or social worker what is available, and let them know if a sibling is having a hard time.
Words to know
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Common questions
▸How do siblings usually react?
Brothers and sisters may feel worried, scared, left out, jealous of the attention their sibling gets, or guilty for having those feelings. These reactions are normal.
▸Should I tell siblings what is happening?
Yes. Honest, age-appropriate information helps siblings cope and prevents them from imagining something worse. Let them ask questions and share their feelings.
▸Is cancer contagious?
No. It helps to reassure siblings that they cannot catch cancer from their brother or sister and that nothing they did caused it.
▸How can I help siblings feel included?
Keep familiar routines where you can, spend one-on-one time when possible, and find small ways for siblings to help and stay connected, such as making cards or visiting when allowed.
▸Is there special support for siblings?
Many children's hospitals offer sibling support programs, groups, and activities. Ask your care team or social worker what is available.
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