At the best of times communicating with your children can be problematic let alone when you are contemplating discussing a health condition with them. The level of discussion you choose to have with your children will depend on their age, temperature and emotional maturity. We would suggest that discussion take place where the children are most comfortable and safe and with limited distractions in order to enable them to comprehend and participate in the conversation. Plan ahead and decide about the best way to deliver the information but keep in mind that even the most prepared people can’t control every situation. You can only do the best you can. Do not panic if things don’t go to plan. Your children will not be devastated by one discussion that doesn’t go smoothly. They will more than likely be appreciative that the discussion took place.

As a parent, you know your children best and know how to best deal with them in potentially distressing situations. You may already have your own strategies in discussing your condition with your children and we have also included below some practical tips to help you decide how to approach the subject with them.