Telling Small Children

My daughter was 6 1/2 when I had my surgery. I told her that I had some "parts" in me that didn't work anymore and the dr was going to take them out. she wanted to know if the dr was going to cut me and where. I told her that I would be in the hospital for a few days but she could call me or visit. I told her when I got home that I would be sore and wouldn't be able to do much and she would have to help out more. I told her that she could help take care of me. She said she'd read to me to make me feel better. I tried not to tell her too much, just enough so that she wouldn't be scared.

My sons are 2.5 (3 in January) and 13 months...so, the baby doesn't understand anything yet....but I've kind of talked to my 2.5yo that mommy's belly hurts and I go to the doctor to see if he can fix it. We haven't talked about the hospital yet but I will this weekend...

Great ideas from everyone. Like our conditions and aches/pains, everyone is different and reacts in their own way. I have only 'mentioned' having surgery to my 5 children (2 my own, 3 step-children). My daughter, 8, immediately had tears swell up in her big brown eyes. At that moment, I sortof cracked a smile, almost a laugh, and said 'Don't worry... I'll be fine, the doctor's know exactly what they are doing'. It sometimes helps to turn things into humor, instead of being so serious all the time. My 6 year old son only recognized the fact that I 'dont have to use that orange heat-thing all the time'. haha... kids! I have a wonderful DH, and my mother and father both live about 1 mile away from me. I also have a wonderful staff that I work with, and even MOMS of my children's friends who have already offered to help out with sitting, errands, etc.... Like many other posts here, you are going to have to ASK for help without feeling guilty. Children are resiliant, trust me... they WILL adapt. Just make it fun for them. Allow them to make dinner (although your DH may not enjoy the cleanup). Ask for many hugs and kisses. They will feel more involved if you allow them to participate in activities and chores which they usually dont do. Good luck!

When I had my left ovary and tubed removed, my boys were 5, 4, and 1 years old. I told them I had a big boo boo in my tummy and the doctor was going to fix it. Though I told them I would have to rest and could not pick them up or drive, etc. they seemed to forget it all when I go home. Therefore, I had to remind them about my boo-boo. Keep it simple and then just answer the questions that they may have.