KIWI: Kids Inquire, We Inform
A diagnosis of cancer can trigger many emotions, and the illness often affects not only the patient, but the family as a whole. Many patients have children and teenagers who may need help coping with a parent’s cancer. In addition, some parents may wonder about the best way to talk about their diagnosis with their children and teens. Children sometimes have misconceptions about what cancer is and how it will affect them and their family, and some children create scenarios in their minds which are far worse than the reality. For example, some children may believe they caused their parent’s cancer, while others may be under the impression they can “catch” cancer, much like they catch a cold or flu. Accurate information and good communication among family members can contribute to improved coping in children, teens and ultimately the family as a whole.
To help parents and children learn healthy ways to discuss and cope with a cancer diagnosis in the family, the Department of Social Work created a comprehensive program for parents, children and teens. KIWI, Kids Inquire – We Inform, aims to teach coping strategies to parents and their children, as well as to facilitate communication among family members. By providing information and communication tools for children and teens, the whole family is better equipped to cope with a parent’s cancer diagnosis. It can also alleviate some anxiety many parents feel when they don’t know the best way to discuss their cancer with their children.
The KIWI program has three components:
Kid Kits
Backpacks containing information and tools for children and parents to assist in learning about cancer and healthy ways to cope.
CLIMB®
Children’s Lives Include Moments of Bravery, a support program for children and teens coping with a parent’s cancer. The program provides support groups for children, teens and parents.
Kid to Kid: Learning to Cope When Your Parent Has Cancer
A video for children which explains cancer, treatments, and common questions kids may have when a parent has cancer.
- Kid to Kid: Learning to Cope When Your Parent Has Cancer
- De un Niño a Otro: Cómo Hacerle Frente Cuando tu Padre o tu Madre Tienen Cáncer
For more information on KIWI, contact your social work counselor or the Department of Social Work at (713) 792-6195.
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