kids not only have a lot of smarts and great perception but it starts so young too. when i had my surgery my youngest was 3. she took it all in stride ... her concerns were mommy did not feel good (and she would pat me and say it is ok mommy, you will feel better) and then when i took out the proosthesis to give my mouth a rest i was unable to speak and she would say "you can't talk, mommy???" and i would say "no" and she would say "that's okay mommy, you can talk soon" ... and off she would go a happy camper

I am sure when a child is older, say 5 on up they will be more concerned with the changes and they may seem scary to them. i think the parents should be the ones to guide them to understanding and ask for help if they need it from the pros but usually kids are more flexible and less apprehensive if the parents share the news of coming changes and pose it to them in a positive light that all WILL be okay but it will be a change and may not be much fun for awhile ...