When it comes to managing type 1 diabetes at school, preparation is key. As a busy mom, I understand the daily hustle of getting kids ready, from preparing breakfast to ensuring the bus is caught on time. Add in the complexity of managing type 1 diabetes and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

School often represents the challenge of letting go. We’re determined to guide, support, and nourish our T1D warriors. It’s normal to worry about their well-being throughout the day. But when it comes to school, our goal is to ensure they have a normal, thriving school experience while managing diabetes.

Learning to trust our children’s diabetes management and knowing when to step in is one of the hardest parts of being a T1D caregiver. It’s a delicate balance that takes time and patience.

It’s okay to acknowledge our fears and uncertainties about school. Fortunately, there are proactive steps to ensure our children thrive. From creating a detailed diabetes care plan to ensuring they have all necessary supplies, these tips will help make school life smoother and safer for your child. Read on to learn more!

Tip #1: Meet with teachers and staff

Establishing an open line of communication with teachers, nurses, and administrators is crucial for managing type 1 diabetes at school. Start by scheduling a meeting before the school year begins to discuss your child’s specific needs and care plan.

Before any meeting, it’s important to reflect on what you need as the caregiver. Do you need to lean on the support of your partner or do you feel comfortable having these conversations alone? A health coach can also support you in these discussions!

Also, depending on the age of your child, your T1D warrior may take a more active role in explaining their diabetes to teachers. Their involvement is a great way to foster more ownership along the T1D journey.

Having an open dialogue with teachers is an ongoing partnership. It’s important to regularly update staff with any changes in your child’s condition or treatment. Emails, phone calls, or brief monthly check-ins are great ways to enhance open communication.

When you prioritize building a trusting relationship with the school team, you’re helping to ensure your child receives consistent and informed care – a win-win for all.

Tip #2: Create a detailed diabetes care plan

Developing a comprehensive diabetes care plan tailored to your child’s needs helps ensure a proactive approach to managing type 1 diabetes at school. Before any plan is created, it’s really important to collaborate with your child’s healthcare providers. Who do you need and want involved?

Your plan could look a lot of different ways, but some initial ideas could include detailed instructions on managing your child’s diabetes throughout the school day, including insulin administration, blood sugar monitoring, and handling emergencies.

Another great way to remain proactive is by including step-by-step instructions for different scenarios. Open, trusted and clear communication is fostered when you talk through low/high blood sugar episodes, meal times, and physical activity scenarios with school staff.

Tip #3: Assemble a diabetes supply box

Having a comprehensive diabetes supply box is essential for ensuring your child with type 1 diabetes has everything they need throughout the school day. Start with the basics: a glucose meter, test strips, lancets, insulin (pump or pens), and a backup continuous glucose monitor.

It’s also crucial to have supplies on hand for treating low blood sugar. Many of my clients have found glucose tablets, organic honey packets, and banana chips to be helpful in these situation. Always consult with your healthcare provider to explore additional strategies and resources that will work best for you and your T1D warrior.

Also, be sure to include spare batteries and chargers for electronic devices. It’s also essential to provide a list of emergency contacts. Be sure to label everything with your child’s name and ensure the school staff knows where to find these supplies. Common storage areas include the nurse’s office or your child’s teacher’s desk, ensuring quick and easy access when needed.

Finally, regularly review and update the checklist with your child’s healthcare providers to accommodate any changes in diabetes management needs.

Here are a few cost-effective ways to store your child’s diabetes supplies:

• Clear Plastic Storage Box
• Clear Plastic Storage Box (Multiple Levels)
• Watertight box
• Hard Shell Travel Case

Tip #4: Help empower your child

Empowering and supporting our T1D warrior is crucial for managing type 1 diabetes at school. Are there ways you can help encourage your child to communicate openly by identifying a trusted teacher or staff member they can turn to?

Additionally, organizing a “diabetes show and tell” can be a fun and educational way to involve classmates. Depending on the comfort level of your T1D warrior, they could show their diabetes supplies, explain CGM alarms, and share low blood sugar snacks with the class, all while you stand by their side.

Final thoughts…

Oftentimes, school can be a significant hurdle for type 1 diabetes families. It can be really challenging to let go and trust in an environment other than home. Luckily, there are several steps to support this transition for both you and your child.

At the start of any school year, it’s a great first step to meet with teachers and staff to educate and review your child’s unique diabetes care plan. Packing and organizing a diabetes supply box is another powerful strategy to ensure your child is supported at school.

Finally, collaborate with teachers and staff. Helping others understand your child’s diabetes is a great way for your child to feel supported, empowered and understood at school.

I hope these four tips inspire actionable steps you can take to support your T1D warrior. Remember, you’re doing an amazing job! And if you’re interested in further support along your type 1 diabetes journey, consider exploring a health coaching partnership with Type Won Coaching™.

To get started today, feel free to send an email to hello@typewoncoaching.com. Or if you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of health coaching, please check out my previous posts:

• 3 Ways Health Coaching Supports Type 1 Diabetes Caregivers
• Let Health Coaching Transform Your Type 1 Diabetes Journey

Until next time, sending you and your family so much love,

Allee

This blog is made for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice.
The information in this blog is not intended to (1) replace a one-on-one relationship with a
qualified licensed healthcare provider, (2) create or establish a provider-patient relationship,
or (3) create a duty for us to follow up with you.