Diabetes management

Children and teens

The majority of children with diabetes have type 1 diabetes but a growing number of children and teens are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes which was once considered an adults only disease.
As children grow up they need to take more responsibility for their own diabetes care and management. It is important that the parent give them more autonomy to own their diabetes, while staying close to their treatment to ensure their safety. It can be a difficult balance, one that constantly shifts along with developmental changes in your child.

Use your knowledge of your child to introduce him or her gradually to different aspects of diabetes self-management at the appropriate time. It is important to remember that children mature at different rates, what one child can handle at age seven another may be ready at age four. Each child`s individual emotional and physical development can also progress at varying speeds. For example, a preschool-aged child may have the mental capacity to test her own blood glucose levels, but lack the fine motor skills to do the job.

Self-testing blood sugar levels. Somewhere between ages 5 and 7 children may start expressing an interest in testing their own blood glucose levels. As long as their testing method is correct, pass along this task to them. Parents should remind children to test at the appropriate times and should help interpret blood sugar readings.

Counting carbohydrates. Between ages 7 and 9 children may begin asking about carbohydrates and engaging in simple carb counting. Child-geared systems that use visual aids such as flashcards and refrigerator magnets may help your child understanding counting earlier.

Taking insulin. Between the ages 8 and 12 most children should be able to administer injections, parents should oversee dose calculation and drawing up of the insulin, although doing so in a hands-off manner will help your child build the skills and confidence she needs to take over the task permanently.