OBJECTIVES: Childhood cancer’s profound effects should be assessed appropriately within clinical trials: however, a conceptual model is required to help design appropriate measurement strategies. The aim of this study was to develop an initial pediatric oncology conceptual model. METHODS: Key databases were searched for articles focused on qualitative research with children (ages 0-18) with cancer and/or their caregivers. Four patient/parent internet forums were reviewed. Telephone interviews with five pediatric oncology clinicians were performed.  Data were analyzed using grounded theory methods. RESULTS: CONCLUSIONS: Cancer’s impact on children is multifaceted and complicated.  Issues identified in this review that must be considered when designing outcomes strategies are: the child’s age, cancer type and stage, delineating disease and treatment symptoms/impacts, and short/long term side effects impacts on nutrition and development.