The "empty speech bubbles": Explaining cancer through play. A pediatric oncology unit pilot experience

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Oncology
• Child Psychology
• Health Communication

Background:

• Children with tumors face challenges in understanding their illness.
• Effective communication between parents and children is crucial for psychological adjustment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a psycho-educational intervention for pediatric tumor patients.
• To enhance disease awareness and promote psychological adjustment.
• To improve parent-child communication about cancer.

Main Methods:

• A four-month intervention involving a caregiver guidebook, parent communication training, and child-centered educational activities.
• Utilized age-appropriate methods like play and anonymous question tools.
• Involved a multidisciplinary team in a single pediatric oncology center.

Main Results:

• Eleven children participated, showing active engagement and satisfaction with information.
• Anonymous question tools facilitated open expression of fears and doubts.
• Parents reported increased confidence and ease in discussing illness with their children.

Conclusions:

• Structured, interactive interventions for illness awareness are feasible and well-accepted in pediatric oncology.
• These interventions can support psychological adjustment in children with tumors.
• The approach enhances parent-child communication, contributing to holistic cancer care.