How do I tell my kids without scaring them?

The fact that you're thinking this carefully about their hearts already says a lot about the kind of father you are.

Families in our community often share a few threads that helped: keeping explanations short, honest and repeatable ('the doctors are giving daddy strong medicine, and some days it makes him tired'); answering exactly the question that was asked and no more — children usually ask for what they are ready to hear; and giving each child a small, real way to help (choosing tonight's movie, watering the plants) so they feel included rather than shut out. It's okay to say 'I don't know yet' — children handle honest uncertainty better than silence.

Many hospitals also have staff who specialise in talking with children about a parent's illness — your own care team can point you to what's available where you are.

This answer is general lifestyle information from LINGO CARE, reviewed by our advisors. It is not medical advice — please consult your healthcare team for anything about diagnosis or treatment.