Supporting Children with Diabetes: From Infants to Adolescents
TalkOnDiabetes recognizes the natural development of our children, and understands that diabetes, especially Type 1, can be a challenging part of a child’s growth and upbringing. This section offers information, advice, and linkage for assistance in dealing with children’s diabetic matters and subjects, including support for parents and other relatives, and peer support for teenagers.
The New Results, The New Steps, The New Support
Understanding the Diagnosis
Explaining to Your Child
Self-Care and Coping
Facing Challenges and Making Changes
School and Family
Management by age
Healthy Glucose Range: 70-180 mg/dL
Monitoring: Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is often the most practical and safest method for infants, as frequent finger pricks can be distressing. If CGM is not available, frequent checks with a glucometer may be necessary, especially before and after feeds.
Infants with diabetes require meticulous care due to their rapid growth and development. Breastfeeding is generally preferred, as it offers a more stable blood sugar compared to formula. However, insulin requirements can fluctuate significantly during this period, necessitating frequent monitoring and adjustments. CGM is often the most practical and safest method for infants, minimizing the need for frequent finger pricks, which can be distressing.
Hypoglycemia is a major concern in infants, and early recognition is crucial. Signs of hypoglycemia include irritability, lethargy, poor feeding, and tremors. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant in observing their infant for these symptoms and be prepared to administer glucose as needed. A glucagon kit should always be readily available in case of severe hypoglycemia.
In addition to frequent blood sugar monitoring, infants with diabetes may require other interventions, such as adjusting insulin doses, monitoring for signs of dehydration, and ensuring adequate nutrition. Close collaboration between parents, healthcare providers, and diabetes educators is essential to ensure optimal care for infants with diabetes. Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider are necessary to monitor the infant’s growth, development, and diabetes management.
Healthy Glucose Range: 70-180 mg/dL
Monitoring: CGM remains a valuable tool. Finger pricks can be incorporated as the child becomes more cooperative.
Toddlers with diabetes require a balance of care and independence. While CGM remains a valuable tool, incorporating finger pricks can help toddlers become more involved in their care. As they develop, it’s crucial to teach them about diabetes and involve them in their management, such as checking their own blood sugar under supervision.
Healthy snacks and meals should be planned to maintain stable blood sugars. Toddlers are active and may require more frequent snacks or adjustments to their insulin doses. It’s important to be mindful of the glycemic index of foods and to choose options that provide sustained energy.
Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia risks continue in toddlers. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant in monitoring their child’s blood sugar and recognizing the signs and symptoms of both conditions. Education on how to treat hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia is essential, and a glucagon kit should always be readily available.
As toddlers become more mobile, it’s important to consider their safety. Teach them about the importance of carrying a diabetes identification card or bracelet and how to communicate their needs to others. Involving the toddler’s daycare or preschool in their diabetes management can also help ensure their safety and well-being.
Healthy Glucose Range: 70-180 mg/dL
Monitoring: CGM can be continued, and finger pricks can become more frequent. Encourage the child to participate in blood sugar checks.
Pre-schoolers are beginning to understand the world around them and can start to grasp the concept of diabetes. Involving them in their care can foster a sense of responsibility and independence. Encourage them to participate in meal planning, exercise, and blood sugar monitoring.
Healthy eating habits and regular physical activity are crucial for pre-schoolers with diabetes. Focus on providing balanced meals and snacks that are low in sugar and high in fiber. Encourage them to engage in age-appropriate physical activities, such as playing outdoors or participating in sports.
Teach pre-schoolers about the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, and how to respond appropriately. Provide them with age-appropriate education materials and games to help them understand diabetes.
As pre-schoolers become more social, it’s important to involve their peers and caregivers in their diabetes management. Consider organizing diabetes awareness activities at their preschool or daycare to educate others about the condition.
Healthy Glucose Range: 70-180 mg/dL
Monitoring: CGM remains a useful option. Finger pricks should be performed regularly, with the child taking increasing responsibility for their care.
School-age children can become more independent in managing their diabetes with guidance. Encourage them to participate in school activities and sports, and adjust their insulin and meal plans accordingly. Teach them about the importance of healthy eating and regular exercise, and help them develop strategies for maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Provide education on diabetes-related emergencies and how to respond. School staff should be trained on how to recognize and treat hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, and the child’s emergency contact information should be readily available.
Consider joining a diabetes support group for children and families to connect with others who understand the challenges of living with diabetes. This can provide emotional support and practical advice.
As children enter adolescence, they may experience changes in their bodies and hormones that can affect their insulin sensitivity. Monitor their blood sugar closely during this time and adjust their treatment as needed.
Healthy Glucose Range: 70-180 mg/dL
Monitoring: CGM can be continued, and finger pricks should be performed regularly. Encourage the child to take full responsibility for their diabetes management.
Puberty can significantly affect insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control in pre-adolescents. Hormonal changes can lead to increased insulin resistance, making it more challenging to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Monitor your child’s blood sugar closely during this period and adjust their treatment as needed.
Encourage pre-adolescents to make healthy lifestyle choices, including eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and getting enough sleep. Help them develop coping mechanisms for managing stress and emotional challenges, as these factors can also impact blood sugar control.
Provide education on diabetes-related complications and the importance of lifelong management. Discuss the long-term consequences of poorly controlled diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage.
As pre-adolescents become more independent, it’s important to empower them to take responsibility for their diabetes management. Encourage them to participate in decision-making regarding their treatment and self-care.
