Learning your child has diabetes is quite a shock. This area of diabetes.org is for parents whose child has just been diagnosed. It covers the basics of diabetes treatment, as well as issues you may experience in the months and years ahead. It's not meant to replace advice and education from your child's health care team. Rather, use this as a reference as you begin your diabetes journey.
What is diabetes?
Learn about type 1 and type 2 diabetes, the signs and symptoms of diabetes, and the complications of diabetes.
Diabetes Care
When your child is diagnosed with diabetes, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by all the information you're given. This section will give you a quick overview of diabetes treatment. Managing diabetes is a matter of juggling three things: insulin, food, and exercise. All three have a major effect on diabetes control.
Living with Diabetes
Diabetes affects everything you do. In this section, learn how diabetes may affect relationships with family and friends. Or, what do you on sleep overs, or vacations or when traveling? It's all here.
How has Diabetes Inspired You?
Inspired by Diabetes is a global campaign asking people with diabetes, as well as their family, friends and healthcare professionals, to express how diabetes has impacted their lives — and share those stories with others around the world.
Diabetes and the Law
Unfortunately, people with diabetes -- of all ages -- face discrimination at times. Children with diabetes most often run into discrimination at school or day care. Parents, know your child's rights under the law.
Resources
This section provides a listing of some resources that may be of help to you in learning more about diabetes, including the Wizdom Kit.
Planet D
Kids, check out this Web site especially for you! Here you'll find all kinds of great stuff to help you manage your diabetes.
For Teens
All teens face challenges and have to make decisions about dating, driving, and alcohol, among other things. Teens with diabetes face the same choices as their friends. Here's a rundown of some common teen issues and how diabetes may affect them.
For Schools
This section provides school personnel with information needed in order to understand diabetes and provide a safe environment for all students.
Presentation: Tips to Help Teachers Keep Kids with Diabetes Safe at School
Download this presentation and talking points to help inform teachers in your child's school about how to keep kids with diabetes safe at school. If you have a school nurse, work with the nurse to make the presentation. The presentation defines diabetes, describes warning signs for immediate concerns such as hypoglcyemia, and gives tips for helping students with diabetes succeed in the classroom. Give this presentation and then hand out ADA's "Ten Tips for Teachers of Kids with Diabetes" (PDF) above and "Solutions for Common Diabetes Management Concerns in the Classroom." (PDF)
