Abstract

This study examined the psychological impact of the online version of the psychosocial support program CLIMB® for school-age children (7–12 years) whose parents were diagnosed with cancer. CLIMB® (Children’s Lives Include Moments of Bravery) is typically conducted in person and is designed to enhance children’s coping skills for stress related to parental illness and to foster emotional resilience. Due to the impact of COVID-19, the program was implemented online in this study. Both parents and children reported a level of satisfaction comparable to that of the in-person format. Following participation, children demonstrated improved resilience and reported feeling reassured through learning about their parent’s illness and connecting with peers in similar situations. Parents observed that their children had gained a better understanding of the illness, showed emotional growth, and that their own concerns about their children were alleviated. These findings suggest that CLIMB® can serve as an effective support method even when delivered online, highlighting its potential value in supporting cancer patients with children and their families.

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