Cancer makes it hard to feel like a normal kid. A real childhood can get lost in the shuffle of it all between hospital stays, doctor’s visits, treatments, and side effects. Part of what we, as parents, caregivers, and community members, can do for these incredible kids is give them their childhood back.

Despite cancer’s challenges, kids can still have fun, find joy, and just be kids. Here are a few ideas to reclaim the fun of being a kid:

8 Ideas to Bring Fun to Kids with Cancer

Idea #1 – Find or create accessible play spaces.

Because kids with cancer may be more susceptible to bruising, fatigue, and injury, spaces for play must be safe and accessible. Look around your area – accessible playgrounds are growing more common. There are indoor soft play places where kids can climb, slide, and tumble, with mats designed to soften the landing! Do some research. If you’re not a parent, consider gifting tickets to the family.

Idea #2 – Invest in a stroller wagon.

Stroller wagons, like those sold by Wonderfold, can be a great option for families looking to get out and about without requiring a child with cancer to walk long distances. These wagons often hold multiple children plus everything you need for a trip to the beach, zoo, aquarium, or other sightseeing adventure. Wonderfold has also donated its products to pediatric hospitals and childhood cancer nonprofits.

They can get expensive, so it may be a good idea for the community to pitch in and fundraise for the family. These products mean more mobility and access to the fun the world has to offer!

Idea #3 – Pet therapy.

Did you know a cat’s purr can reduce stress and lower blood pressure? If you don’t have a pet and can’t take on the responsibility of getting one right now, all is not lost. Your child can still benefit from a furry friend. Programs like PAWS for People help coordinate visits with trained, loving therapy pets. In the United States, places like cat cafés are growing in popularity, too! These are places where people can interact and relax with socialized cats while enjoying everything else that comes with a café.

An animal companion, even a temporary one, can be a great joy and comfort to kids with cancer.

Idea #4 – Indulge their interests.

I think it’s safe to say that most adults are not interested in the same things kids are. However, one of the ways to really connect with and show love to our kids is to get involved in their interests. Take them to see things that align with their hobbies and favorite things, if possible. Ask them about what they enjoy. Watch their favorite shows with them. Not only are these things a good distraction and an opportunity to bond, but it helps them feel less alone.

Idea #5 – Low-energy activities.

Cancer treatment can cause kids to grow easily fatigued. They may not be able to run around like they’re used to – but fun can still be had! Prioritize family or friend activities that don’t demand too much energy. Movie nights, crafting projects, video game tournaments, and board game nights… are all fun and sociable but won’t require too much physical exertion.

Idea #6 – Take a day trip.

Pick a weekend and take the family on a day trip. Most places have something interesting to do or see within an hour or two of where they live. Pack up in the morning, set out early, and plan to spend the afternoon exploring a new place. Day trips can be a good break from the doldrums and stress – plus, it’s time to bond as a family!

Idea #7 – Encourage creativity.

Every kid can benefit from a creative outlet. Emotions are often expressed and understood through creativity – whether art, writing, or dance. Encourage your child to try different things and explore until they find something they genuinely enjoy. This creative outlet is low-stakes and helps bring back that childlike sense of wonder and imagination.

Idea #8 – Be silly.

Parents, you’re probably stressed out, too. You might not feel like you can be silly – be joyful – while your child faces cancer. But getting down with your kids and showing them that there are still laughs to be had, joy to be found, and jokes to tell sends a vital message: that life is worth living, that cancer doesn’t have to stop us from living life, and that we can still find room to be a little silly. It can add much-needed levity to your life.

So embrace silliness – for your sake as well as your child’s!