When a child begins cancer treatment, families often find themselves navigating a world they never expected to enter. Alongside the medical complexities, parents must also manage the emotional, physical and practical challenges that treatment brings. Everyday routines – mealtimes, schoolwork, hobbies, or even simple play – can suddenly feel overwhelming. Yet these familiar parts of life are also powerful tools for helping children feel safe, supported and resilient. This article brings together insights from dietitians, occupational therapists, play specialists and physiotherapists to offer a holistic guide to supporting your child’s wellbeing throughout treatment. While every child’s journey is unique, small, compassionate steps can make a meaningful difference.
Supporting your child’s nutrition through treatment
For many families, nutrition becomes one of their biggest worries. Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery can affect appetite, taste, digestion and energy levels. Children may experience nausea, mouth ulcers, constipation or fatigue, all of which can make eating difficult. It’s easy for parents to feel pressure to 'get it right', but dietitians emphasise that perfection isn't the goal. The priority is helping children maintain strength, comfort and energy in whatever ways are manageable. One of the most helpful strategies is shifting away from the idea of three large meals a day. When appetite is low or unpredictable, eating little and often – every two to three hours – can be far more successful. Small portions feel less daunting, and children may be more willing to try a few bites at a time.
Because treatment increases the body’s nutritional needs, high-calorie, high-protein foods are especially valuable. These don’t need to be complicated. Adding grated cheese to pasta, stirring nut butter into porridge, choosing full-fat yoghurt, or mixing cream into soups can boost calories without increasing the volume of food. Snacks such as smoothies, flapjacks, crumpets, bagels or custard pots can also help children meet their energy needs between meals. Hydration is equally important, particularly if vomiting or diarrhoea occurs. Sipping water, milk, diluted juice or even ice lollies throughout the day can help prevent dehydration. Some children find cold drinks more soothing, while others prefer warm, mild flavours. Experimenting gently can help you discover what works best. Food isn't only fuel, it’s also emotional comfort. Allowing children some choice – within limits – can reduce anxiety and give them a sense of control. Offering two or three options at mealtimes prevents overwhelm while still giving them a voice. Familiar routines, favourite foods and relaxed family meals can help maintain a sense of normality during a time when so much feels uncertain. Above all, remember that appetite will vary from day to day. A registered paediatric dietitian can support you in adapting to these changes and ensuring your child receives the nutrients they need. And be kind to yourself – small successes count.
Maintaining daily activities and independence
Cancer treatment can affect a child’s ability to participate in everyday activities, from getting dressed to attending school or enjoying hobbies. Occupational therapists encourage families to identify which activities matter most to their child and to focus on maintaining independence in those areas. This might mean breaking tasks into smaller steps, using equipment to make activities easier, or choosing times of day when energy levels are higher. For example, a child who struggles with morning fatigue might find it easier to wash or dress later in the day. A favourite hobby might be adapted so they can still participate in a modified way. Maintaining independence isn’t just practical – it supports emotional wellbeing. Being able to do things for themselves, even in small ways, helps children feel capable and connected to their identity beyond illness. It also provides gentle physical activity, which can boost mood, motivation and energy levels. It’s important to understand that these everyday tasks contribute to a child’s sense of normality. Even small achievements, such as having a bath, helping set the table, or completing part of a school assignment, can build confidence.
Top L to R: Debbi Rowley, Rachael Bennett. Bottom: Rebecca Rodgers
The power of play during treatment
Play is not a luxury; it’s a lifeline. For children, play is how they process the world, express emotions and make sense of experiences that feel frightening or unfamiliar. Play specialists work closely with families to use play as a therapeutic tool throughout treatment.
• Preparation is one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety. Helping children understand what will happen during procedures – using toys, pictures, models or simple explanations – can reduce fear of the unknown. When children know what to expect, they feel more in control and more able to cope.
• Encouraging children to ask questions and talk openly in a calm, reassuring environment helps them feel secure. They look to trusted adults for cues, especially when things feel uncertain. Supporting them to express their feelings, whether through conversation, drawing, role play, or storytelling, can make a significant difference to how they manage treatment.
• Role play is particularly powerful. Using imaginative scenarios allows children to explore their emotions safely and without judgement. They may act out fears, frustrations or questions they don’t yet have words for. Through play, they can rehearse coping strategies and build confidence.
• Parents and carers also need support. Techniques used with children – such as mindfulness, grounding exercises or breathing strategies – can be equally helpful for adults. Caring for yourself isn't selfish – it strengthens your ability to support your child.
Supporting physical wellbeing
Physical activity may not be the first thing families think about during treatment, but it plays an important role in maintaining strength, mobility and overall wellbeing. Staying active can support muscle strength, bone health, cardiovascular fitness, sleep, mood and social connection
Of course, some activities may not be recommended depending on the treatment your child is receiving. Your healthcare team can advise you on what’s safe. But many forms of movement are not only allowed but are encouraged. Activity doesn’t need to be structured exercise. Everyday movements count – walking to school, climbing stairs, getting on and off the floor to play, riding a scooter, kicking a ball in the park, or playing balloon tennis in the living room. Small amounts of movement help keep children active without overwhelming your child. Setting small, achievable goals can be motivating. A goal might be as simple as walking to the end of the garden, doing a few minutes of stretching, or playing outside for 10 minutes. As your child’s energy allows, these goals can be gradually increased. If you’re unsure how to set appropriate goals, a member of your healthcare team can guide you.
Further information on physical activity can be found in the CCLG booklet ‘Keeping your child active during and after treatment’.
Celebrating the small wins
Supporting a child through cancer treatment is one of the most challenging experiences a family can face. But you’re not alone. A whole team of professionals – dietitians, occupational therapists, play specialists, physiotherapists, nurses and doctors – are there to help you navigate each step. Children thrive when they feel heard, supported and understood. Whether it’s choosing a favourite snack, completing part of a daily task, expressing feelings through play or being active, every small achievement matters. These moments build confidence, resilience and a sense of progress. Every little counts. Together, nutrition, activity, play, independence and emotional connection form a foundation of support that helps children feel safe, empowered and cared for throughout their treatment.
