Welcome

It is one thing to be able to cope with your own illness; telling children about that illness can be overwhelming.
Though you might have a tendency to shield them from your illness, it is important that they be able to understand - at their level - what is happening to their family because of your illness. If they are not informed, their imaginations might be significantly worse than reality.

The amount of information you provide might be dependent upon the age of your children, your relationship with them, and their interest in wanting additional information.
Young children (under age 7) may not want or understand details. They might ask questions but they need assurance that they will be taken care of during your illness. Older children (7-12) might be able to understand more. They may even want to accompany you to your appointments.
Routine is important to children of all ages; however, school-aged children might worry that their routine will change. Try to do what you can to make sure they still get to do the things they enjoy.
Adolescents often strive to be independent of their parents. Although they might not seek information from you, they may read pamphlets you leave out for them to see. Though they may understand what they should do, they often feel torn by what they want to do. They may be helpful or withdraw. They may avoid sharing their feelings.

Children of all ages need to know that you care about them. Be honest. Not telling your children does not protect them. Children know that something is wrong and often make up an “explanation” that is worse than the truth, or blame themselves about why you are not at home or are too tired to play.
Use clear and simple language, including correct medical terms. Don’t over-explain. Some honest information, couched in love and hopefulness, will allow kids to ask for more information when they need it.

Having a parent with physical limitations can change a child’s outlook on life for the better – especially if he or she has a positive attitude. It can allow the child the opportunity to develop compassion for those with physical challenges and feel comfortable talking to, playing with or otherwise interacting with people who are “different.” On the other hand, if either parent is embarrassed by the PWPs limitations or by the physical appearance of the symptoms, the child may develop the wrong outlook about physical disability. If one or both parents is always complaining about the limitations PD has caused instead of living their lives to the fullest, the child can grow up to be resentful and inconsiderate.
By being open and honest, you should be able to build a wonderful, trusting relationship with your children and be able to allay their fears.