It’ll help you understand how to talk sensitively and honestly about terminal illness with your tamariki, which can provide some much needed reassurance during this unsettling time. You might find it hard to read, especially because it deals with so many complex, emotional and personal issues. That’s ok.
In this guide you’ll find tips to help you talk openly about terminal illness with your taitamaiti (child) or tamariki through all stages of your journey. You can share this guide with anyone who talks with your tamariki, like whānau, a kura māhita (teacher), kura (school) counsellors and neighbours. This will ensure your tamariki hears a consistent message about terminal illness.
This isn’t intended to replace professional help and support when needed. If you feel you and your tamariki may need help from a professional, please reach out to Kenzie’s Gift.
This guide is a digital version - if you need a print ready file for sending to your printers, please contact us.
Talking to your tamariki about terminal illness can feel scary but please remember you’re not alone. There’s a lot of support out there to help you have these difficult conversations. They can also help you if you’re worried about how your tamariki are coping and their behaviour.
If you’re worried about your child’s behaviour, reach out for help from healthcare professionals, including:
There are a lot of support organisations for families experiencing mate pukupuku.
These include:
Please support us to allow us to continue providing our resources free of charge to families who need them.