6 Tips for Parenting a Child with Type 1 Diabetes

Woody Short

7 years ago

A type 1 Diabetes diagnosis can be so scary, but you’re not alone! Here are some pro tips for parenting a child with type 1 Diabetes.

Suffering from the common cold or a flu is reason enough to worry parents. Parenting a child with type 1 diabetes can bring a whole new set of emotions and insecurities, but knowing that you are not alone, and that there are many tips you can learn and use, can be of great help in this journey.

Moms of type 1 diabetics often express their concerns and struggles, in hopes that they can find support in their experienced peers, but also, as a way of trying to show that you are not alone in this fight.

You may be worrying about not being able to cope or manage your child’s health, that you won’t be able to figure out how to use the necessary equipment or the insulin dosage. But, truth is, that we are not born with a chip full of information to be able to handle every situation.

Just like in some many other instances, moms of type 1 diabetics learn along the way, and adjust their technique and practices as it best works for them and their families.

Parenting a child with type 1 diabetes does not have to be a struggle. While it can be challenging and different in many ways, it also becomes a part of the “normal” routine of the household after a while.

Thankfully, there are many tips for diabetes type 1 patients (and their moms!) to help them manage their every day activities and their health, without compromising their stability and wellbeing.

For moms of type 1 diabetics, there are many things that may be unknown and somewhat complex. However, as you learn about the disease and how to treat it and manage your child’s health, you will also learn that practice really is what makes the habit seem normal and even ordinary.

We’ve rounded up the best tips for diabetes type 1 so moms – and dads, of course! – can feel less stressed and worried about parenting a child with type 1 diabetes.

It’s OK to be scared

It’s important for both parents and their children to be able to express their honest feelings about the sudden change in their lifestyle. Talking about making new adjustments as a family and embarking on the new journey as a unit will make things easier along the way.

Review, adjust and understand your insurance plan

Your child’s treatment is a daily aspect of your life now, therefore review, make the necessary changes and understand your insurance plan to throughly know what equipment, medication, supplies and appointments will cover.

Be ready for emergencies

Having the number of your Physician at hand along with a kit of all the basic necessities is essential (insulin, monitor, test strips, candies, etc.). If possible, keep different kids at home, work, with the nurse or caretaker at school and in your car, so you can always have one close by.

Get informed

Talk to your Doctor, read, ask questions and gather all the information you can. Learn about the different types of diabetes, the way the symptoms manifest and what you can expect as a normal situation and in emergencies.

Create a routine for your children

Parenting a child with type 1 diabetes also means educating them on their illness. Create a routine with them by selecting a time of day, a place and a method to measure their sugar levels and administer their dose of insulin. Help them understand the importance of this moment of the day and why it is for their wellbeing.

Make a healthier change, as a family

Moms of type 1 diabetics need to make several adjustments, but these changes can and should be made as a family. Adopting a healthier diet – which will be necessary for the kids – has also many benefits for parents.

These tips for diabetes type 1 are just a few samples of the many ways in which you can – and you will – be able to handle your child’s health and help them lead a happy and comforting life, despite the diabetes diagnosis.