Children with Diabetes

Age-related Issues

Preschoolers

Preschool-age children with diabetes often have not learned to recognize the symptoms of low blood glucose, or they aren’t able to tell others when they are feeling “low.” So, it’s important that they have frequents blood glucose checks.

Preschoolers are often frightened by fingersticks and insulin injections and may try to avoid or delay getting them. It may help to say: “Yes, I know it hurts” and “You’re being very brave.”

Stickers and stars help encourage a child to have a fingerstick or shot. Use positive reinforcements rather than scolding or threats of punishment.

Young children with diabetes can go through the same fussy eating phases as other children. It’s usually best not to force a fussy child to eat. Have a variety of foods available. If the child rejects one food, offer something else, or offer juice or milk instead.

School-Age Children

School age children want to be like their peers. The child with diabetes may feel different because of having to take insulin, check blook glucose regularly, and follow a meal plan. The best way to handle this will depend on the individual child’s personality.

Some children will check their blood glucose or give themselves an insulin injection for show-and-tell. Older children have presented science projects on diabetes and its care. However, a child who is shy or sensitive about having diabetes may not wish to be singled out in this way. Take cues from the child on how to handle his or her diabetes. Be sure to respect the child’s privacy rights.

Teenagers

For the teenager with diabetes, having to take insulin, check blood glucose, and follow a meal plan is tiresome and can compound the normal difficulties of adolescence. It is typical behavior for a teen with diabetes to ease up on diabetes care and try to act like everyone else.

Sometimes, an adult outside the family with whom a teenager had a good relationship, such as a teacher or coach, can help to provide the teenager with the support he or she needs. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using illegal drugs all pose special risks for the people with diabetes. Nevertheless, some teens with diabetes will engage in these activities. Presenting the facts in a nonjudgmental way and showing the teenager that you expect him or her to act responsibly can help.