Cancer is a "C" Word: Teaching Resources

A young boy learns about cancer. [He] keeps hearing an unfamiliar word that starts with the letter C. He knows that it makes people sad, but he doesn’t know what it is. His parents explain that it is a disease from which “some get better, but, sadly, some may pass away.” He then goes on to ask other adults in his life—his teacher, other relatives—the multitude of questions swirling in his head...The touching twist is that the family goes on to gather other words that start with C that can help someone struggling with cancer, such as community and cuddling. Andreasen’s [illustrator] definitively outlined characters don’t shy away from showing such side effects as hair loss or amputation. The patients are also all different ages and races, stamping out any stereotypical ideas.
This gentle educational primer on a tough topic pushes through fear and lands on love. Kirkus Reviews 
“Cancer is a ‘C’ Word invites readers, young and old, to discover the many other ‘C’ words that support wellness. Community, Caring and Coming Together come alive in images that celebrate diversity. Teachers, counsellors, and parents will welcome the honest, thoughtful presentation made available through rhyme to support young people coping with cancer in their lives. A sensitive, helpful book.” --Tracy Myers, Children’s Counsellor  
“As a school teacher/librarian, I appreciate the diversity of families/individuals used to convey the story. Author, Sunita Pal, explains a scary topic and gives children an uplifting message.” -- Leslie Bell, Teacher/Librarian 

Lifestrong in partnership with Scholastic provides age appropriate resources for teaching  children about cancer.  See:  http://www.scholastic.com/livestrong/collection/index.htm#gradesk-2

Cancer is a C Word also reminds children of the other C words:

• compassion                                           
• community
• caring

​These are important words that are covered in the Primary Core Competencies in the majority of school districts. In the Social Awareness and Responsibility core competency, students are encouraged to develop an awareness, understanding, and appreciation of connections among people. Children who are socially aware, support the development of welcoming and inclusive communities, where people feel safe and have a sense of belonging. For more resources:
https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/competencies/personal-and-social/social-awareness-and-responsibility

Here are some videos from the Imaginary Friend Society which explain cancer and chemotherapy.

For very young children, here is a short (38 second) video from the storybook character, Arthur, explaining cancer. 
​ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89jKEyIkEEQ