Quantcast
Skip to Main Content

Living with Diabetes

Donate Today!

Everyday Life

   

After the initial shock of a diabetes diagnosis wears off, your family will begin adjusting to life with diabetes. With a little planning and preparation, you can resume all of your normal day-to-day activities, such as exercising or going out to eat.

Diabetes should not keep your child from achieving her highest goals. There are Olympic athletes, professional football players, congressmen, actors, and rock stars who live with diabetes. We can help you prepare for all the new "firsts" and get ready to manage your child's care with ease.

 

Managing Stress and Diabetes

Series on Stress and Diabetes for Families

Summer Time Changes Every Day Routine

Summer time changes everyday routines that can affect diabetes management and blood glucose levels. Read one mother's perspective about summer.

Always have supplies handy

Glucose tablets, fast-acting sugar, and two glucagon kits.

Throw Away Used Needles Safely

Collect used needles in an old milk jug or liquid laundry detergent bottle until you can dispose of them safely.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

It's ok to ask your D-team as many questions you want – even the ones you may feel silly for asking!

Shots & Checks

Whether you have to give one or get one, insulin shots or finger pokes for blood glucose (BG) checks are no fun.

Serious Lows

Talk with your diabetes heathcare team about handle a low blood glucose emergency (hypoglycemia).

Sick Days

Watch your child's blood glucose levels carefully when she has a cold or the flu.

Babysitter

Everyone who cares for your child – from babysitters to adult relatives – should be trained on the basics of diabetes care and what to do in an emergency.

School

Before sending your child back to school, notify the school, especially the principal, school nurse and teacher(s) that your child has diabetes.

Away from Home

Diabetes should not prevent your child from enjoying family vacations, slumber parties, or trips to Grandma's house.

Planes

Traveling to another state or country by plane can be stressful for anyone. Here are some tips to help make your next big trip go as smooth as possible.

Sports & Recreation

Exercise and physical activity are good for everyone and especially important for children with diabetes. Just remember to check BG often – before and after exercise.

Food & Fun

Diabetes doesn't mean doing without your family's traditional holiday treats, birthday parties, or outings to your favorite restaurant. With a little planning, a good time can still be had by all!

Teens & Parties

Teens generally want more independence when it comes to food and fun.

Telling Others

Being diagnosed with diabetes is a life-changing event. For many kids, it takes time to accept their new reality and be ready to share with others.

Dating

Teenagers have competing needs, including the need to choose who they want to tell about their diabetes and who they do not.

Driving

Getting that first driver's license is a huge milestone for your teen. Safety behind the wheel should be everyone's number one priority.

Type 1 Families

Sign up for our quarterly Family Link enewsletter to receive news, information, stories, tips and resources to help you manage your child's diabetes.

The Guide for Parents

Guide to Raising a Child With Diabetes 72x72

Newly updated with parenting advice from diabetes experts

Step Out May 2013 250x250

Everyday Wisdom Kit

Wisdom Kit

For families of children with diabetes to get Wisdom for life's everyday moments

Skip Carousel

American Diabetes Association • 1701 North Beauregard Street • Alexandria, VA 22311 • 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383)

Powered by Convio
nonprofit software