Diabetes, explained to children

Being diagnosed with diabetes: a delicate time

Some scientific studies note that children with diabetes, just like anyone who is diagnosed with a chronic illness, are exposed to the risk of psychological trauma in the early phases. Check-ups, blood tests and therapies are new experiences that can alter the relationship of trust between parent and child, sometimes compromising the latter's psychological evolution. But don't worry! With the right advice you'll be able to handle it well.

Invite your child to talk about diabetes

As a parent, you can encourage your child to express what he or she thinks about the diagnosis. You can find inspiration in books like "I'm Still Me, Can't You See?" to ask about any likes and dislikes about the hospital, tests and check-ups, finally bringing up anything that is uncomfortable or scary. Various psychological studies claim that facing a problem head-on is a great way to reset the emotional empathy between parents and children after a diagnosis.

Does your child want people to know?

This is one of the main questions you should ask your son or daughter. Does he or she want friends to know about the condition? Ask your child. It's crucial that your child is comfortable talking about diabetes, and feels able to reply to any questions curious classmates may have.

Diabetes and children's birthday parties

Some parents with diabetic children may feel like celebrating friends' birthdays with a party is now off limits. You might feel a little anxious about a slice of cake that might trigger an episode of hyperglycaemia. But children - even diabetic children - have a right to go to parties and have fun: with a little extra care, they can do anything. Walt Disney's comic book about diabetes, "Coco and Goofy's Goofy Day", might help you to explain to your child how to behave in these situations.

Reading about diabetes in class

"Taking Diabetes to School" is a book written especially to help elementary-school children explain their condition to their peers or understand the particular issues a classmate might have. It includes tips for teachers and a kids' test, but most importantly builds a story around the day-to-day school life of a child with a chronic illness. With great sensitivity and a little storytelling, books like this one can really help teachers find a simple and fun way to explain diabetes to the rest of the class, overcoming any awkwardness that may lead to trauma.