What to Tell the Kids
Talking With Your Children When a Grandparent Is Sick
You got the call, and now there's another question that keeps coming up: what are you supposed to say to your kids?
There's no perfect speech. What your kids need isn't a flawless explanation. It's an honest one, and the reassurance that you're still there. This free guide helps you find the words.
Inside, you'll find:
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Age-by-age language you can use this week, from toddlers to young adults
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Honest answers to the questions kids actually ask
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Scripts for teachers, coaches, and other adults in your child's life
Pulled in Two Directions
Real World Guidance for Parents Navigating Their Own Parent's Illness
This is the book I wish I had when I was raising a toddler and supporting my dad through his cancer. It guides you through the whole season, from the first phone call to what comes after, with tools you can use on the hardest days.
About Joni
Mother • Wife • Licensed Clinical Social Worker • Sandwich Generation Parent • Coach • Speaker
I've been exactly where you are, caring for my toddler while navigating my father's cancer and feeling like I was failing everyone. At the time, I was a social worker at a children's hospital, where I spent seven years in pediatric oncology helping families through serious illness.
That experience taught me something my professional training never could: knowing what families need and living it yourself are two completely different things. It's why I wrote Pulled in Two Directions, a book for parents raising kids while supporting an aging or ill parent, coming in October 2026. The tools in it are the ones I use with the parents I work with now.
I help parents stay connected to their kids and themselves, even when their own parent's needs are pulling hard in the other direction.
When I'm not working with parents, I'm usually outside on a trail or deep in a good book, trying to practice what I preach about refilling your own pitcher.
Contact Joni
Whether you have questions or you're ready to get started, I'm glad you're here.
For coaching, speaking, or other questions, use the form below or email me directly at support@jonialamb.com.
For therapy inquiries, visit Joni Lamb Therapy.
Not ready to reach out yet? Start with my free guide, What to Tell the Kids.
@jonialamb
@JoniALambLCSW
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