Some Things Change and Some Things Stay the Same

Date: 1989
Author: Fred Rogers
Photographs: Jim Judkis
Publisher: American Cancer Society
ISBN:

© 1989 by Family Communications, Inc.

Summary

Some Things Change and Some Things Stay the Same is a publication from the Mister Rogers' Neighborhood First Experiences series. In this book, real life photos are used to help young people feel more comfortable with any fears and questions they may have should they be diagnosed with cancer. The book was published by the American Cancer Society and is very similar in appearance to the books from the First Experiences series.

A Note From Fred Rogers

For a child who has cancer, it can seem like the whole world has gone topsy-turvy. It can seem like that for their parents, too and for everyone in the family. In the face of the overwhelming changes that come with cancer, children and adults may need extra support to help them feel secure.

It's through security and stability that children begin to develop trust in the world and a good feeling about themselves. Even during really difficult changes, there are ways we can offer security. The most important way we do that is by helping children know that they continue to be valued and loved by their family and friends -- not because they have cancer and are getting a lot of special attention, but because of who they are.

Many families have also found that their children seem to compe better with changes when they are able to keep as much as possible the same -- at home, maintaining routines and responsibilities like chores, or at the hospital, bringing along familiar things from home.

It can also help children when we give them permission for their feelings, even the difficult ones. They might find important strength from just knowing that changes can sometimes make people feel angry, sad, and scared and that we understand it's natural and normal to have those feelings. We can also help by encouraging children to find healthy ways to express their feelings, by playing or drawing or talking or even crying.

You'll find your own ways of offering support to your child. However you express your loving care, you'll be giving your child the clear message that he or she is not alone. That kind of support is essential in everyone's life.