Mount Sinai Program Helps Children Cope When a Parent Has Cancer

When a parent is diagnosed with cancer, the well-being of their children often becomes a primary concern for families, research shows. Mount Sinai’s Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy team provides specialized support to help children process complex emotions, ask questions, and build healthy coping skills during this difficult time.

The team creates safe, supportive spaces where young family members—from ages 6 to 24—can receive developmentally appropriate education, engage in bedside and playroom activities, and use creative expression to navigate the illness. “From everyday challenges to life-changing diagnoses, these services support children and families across many medical situations—and are there year-round, including during the holidays, when care and connection matter most,” said the Creative Arts Therapy Coordinator.

Parents’ top two concerns are often how to have conversations about cancer in a way children understand and how their children are coping over time. To address these, the program provides age-appropriate resources including videos, books, and art materials, while also working to normalize the hospital environment. Art therapy, in particular, helps children explore difficult emotions, and families sometimes work on creative projects together to foster communication and bonding.

For caregivers, knowing there is a dedicated role to support their children brings immense relief. For children, engaging in a safe space to talk about and process difficult thoughts and feelings is transformative. The coordinator noted, “I find so much purpose in helping families find meaning. When families are able to connect through moments of joy or creating new traditions together, I feel really honored to be a part of their journey.”