How to Adjust When My Child is Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes

By: SaRene Brooks

Having a child diagnosed with type 1 diabetes can be quite a shock.

The good news is that life can still be wonderful!

"My child has what? Did you say type 1 diabetes?” Then the thoughts come pouring in; What exactly does that mean?..... How will we learn to manage this?...…. What can my child eat?.....How will they ever be able to do everything the other kids are doing?.....and the list goes on and on.

Let’s break some things down in the hopes that it leaves you a little more at ease. I know there is nothing to be said that will take away all the emotions. My ask is that you look for at least one thing that will give you a little more hope.

Diagnosis is rough regardless of how familiar you are with diabetes. The thought of a 24/7 condition that is not going away can be so overwhelming. I experienced this 2 times, and the second time around was not any easier than the first. Here are some things I have learned along the way that might help you settle in.

Start out by learning as much as possible about diabetes and how to manage it. Do this one step at a time and be patient as you do. It is hard to remember everything all at once and especially all that you are told at diagnosis. Write things down and ask questions later once you have had time to settle in. Make time to see a Diabetes Care and Education Specialist as you and your child learn and experience this new life. Also, remember needs will change with a growing child. Let your educator help you through this. I was a mom of kids with diabetes before I became a diabetes educator myself. The education that me and my family received was invaluable.

Give yourself some grace. It takes time and practice to get a system down. Even then it will not be perfect, and that is okay. Use the technology you have available to help you and your child manage his/her diabetes. From finger sticks and injections to CGMs and pumps, there is no right way. The important part is to do the best with what you have.

Allow your child to be part of the learning. Depending on their age, they can gradually take on self-care responsibilities that are appropriate for their learning level. Don’t feel that you, as a parent need to carry the load or protect them from diabetes. Rather, help them safely experience the empowerment that comes through being able to make decisions and take action.

Invite others to join your child’s diabetes team. You can never have too much help and support. Teach extended family how to assist with your child’s management. Let them spend time with you and your child as a practice so they can be a respite caregiver. You will need an occasional break, even if it is for a short time to start with. Develop trust and allow others to help.

Think of diabetes as a tag-along. It does not need to overwhelm or take over but it will always be along for the ride. Your child will be able to continue doing the things they love. Help and support them by working with a diabetes educator to learn about management that accommodates their interests and lifestyle.

Remember, you are not alone in the feelings that come with a child being diagnosed with diabetes. Find ways to cope that will allow you and your child to have a positive relationship with type 1 diabetes.

SaRene Brooks is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES). She is a mom of 3 boys who are now married which added 3 girls to her family. 2 of her sons live with type 1 diabetes (T1D). She specializes in helping families who are impacted by type 1 to adjust and make it a part of their everyday life , while enjoying the things they love.

She is the wife of an avid outdoorsman and loves spending time with him in the mountains. She is a grandma, creative cook, educator and loves to help individuals and families meet their health and nutrition goals.