Princess Kate was faced with a wrenching task. She had to break the devastating news of her cancer diagnosis to her three youngsters.

It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment. But most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that’s appropriate for them and to reassure them that I’m going to be okay.

Before she shared her medical crisis with the world, she made sure she and her husband, Prince William, first told George, Charlotte and little Louis. Going public with the news on Friday was strategic.

That’s when Easter Break began for the children at school so they could process the disheartening news at home, away from their classmates.

Kate’s dilemma is one facing many parents. How do you tell your children that you are seriously ill? Kids are usually more interested in what they can see in terms of a crisis. So rather than describing what’s happening inside of your body, talk about what they might witness. If it’s chemotherapy, like in the case of Princess Kate, what might she seem like when she comes home? If she’s gonna be tired, if her hair’s gonna fall out, just tell the kids what to expect.

Dr. Katie Davis recommends a script that parents can follow. “I’m seeing the best doctor I possibly can, and they’re gonna give me the best care that they possibly can, and it’s scary, but I really hope that everything will be okay.”