We are excited to introduce ourselves as the new co-chairs of what was previously called the Children and Cancer SIG. We thought an important first step was to define the SIG and rename it to clarify the population—kids and teens who have a loved one with cancer (as opposed to children and adolescents who have a cancer diagnosis). We believe this population was well represented in the AYA SIG within AOSW, as well as with APOSW.
The Youth, Families and Cancer SIG is based on the understanding that addressing the needs of all members of the family system, including children and adolescents, is an essential part of psychosocial oncology care. This SIG addresses the psychosocial impact of cancer within the family, with a primary emphasis on the needs of children and adolescents affected by the cancer diagnosis of a parent, close relative or friend. The SIG will provide a forum to develop and share information about best practices, research and resources, discuss new programs and service trends, and identify any action AOSW may need to take on behalf of youth and families impacted by cancer.
We have uploaded a national resource list and book list to the AOSW Member Resources Page (under the Special Interest Groups on the website). Check them out and let us know if we are missing anything. We hope you will start using these resources in your practice.
