I think what was meant by the kids thing was only if they are sick. Cancer patients have compromised immune systems and children are prone to aggresive viruses. When I worked for a school district, many years back, I was sick constantly. When I left the district there was a rather dramatic change in amount of colds and flu I had.

I was a pretty cranky patient too for a variety of reasons during different phases (pain. frustration, no taste, meds, fatigue, nausea, constipation, etc.). Depression is also quite normal for cancer patients. It usually is the worst post treatment.