Children (9-13)

child kissing her grandma on cheek

You may have come to this webpage because someone in your family is sick. It might be your mom, dad, brother, sister, or someone else you care about. It could be that the person you love got sick suddenly, or it has been going on for a long time. Or maybe someone you love has died and you are hurting inside. It is hard to focus on other things and be happy when you are worried about other people you love or you are missing someone who has died. But there are things you can do to feel better, and people you can talk to. We created this website to help you find the help you need.

I don't feel good inside

How Does it Feel to be a Young Caregiver?

Are you having a lot of feelings you don't understand? Check out this video to help you know what you might be feeling and help you understand.

Someone I love is sick

Someone in my family has cancer: A video for kids and parents HD

It is really sad and sometimes hard to understand when a family member has cancer. We hope this video will help you understand what cancer means and give you comfort.

Someone I love has died

Childhood Bereavement: Ways to Cope with your Emotions

This is the story of Sophie who lost her mom when she was young. In this video, she will give you some ideas on how to cope with losing a loved one.

People who can help you

Parents

When you are hurting and trying to understand what is going on in your family, you should start by talking with your parents. Tell them how you are feeling and ask them the questions that are going around in your head. If one of your parents is ill or has died, talk with your other parent about how you are feeling. You could do this during a quiet time, or when your parent isn’t busy doing other things. Parents can be good listeners and can help you to understand what is happening to your family.

Other Family Members

Sometimes parents are not able to help their children because they are too sad or upset to help. But there may be other adult family members who can help you. Do you have an aunt, uncle, or grandparent that you trust? Sharing your worry or sadness with a close adult family member can help you to feel better.

Teachers and Counselors

Your teacher at school is also a good person to talk with. Your teacher can listen and help you to figure out how to get the help you need. Your teacher may send you to the school counselor so you can get more help. Teachers and counselors have these jobs because they want to help young people grow. They also have contact with your family, so if someone in your family is sick or has died, they can work with your family to help you get the support you need.

Other Adults

You may have other adults in your life who can help you. Some children know adults from their church/synagogue/mosque who are good listeners and can help them. Other young people have a coach that they feel close to.

The most important thing is to talk only with adults you trust. These are adults who know you or your family and make you feel safe and comfortable. They do not try to make you do things you don’t want to do, and they want you to talk with your parents about the help they are providing. Talking with an adult you trust will help you to feel better.

Ask Us

You can always send your questions to us. We will read the questions we receive and respond on our FAQ page on a weekly basis. We want you to have the information you need to help you and your family.