Living with diabetes can be challenging, especially if you are a child and have to go to school, where people may not understand the illness. Taking the time to educate teachers, school officials and your classmates about diabetes can provide them with tools they need to help you in an emergency, or better understand the special needs you may have. Having diabetes does not have to mean special treatment or being different from other children at school. A few steps can help you manage diabetes easily when away from home.
Step 1
Wear a medical I.D. bracelet or necklace that identifies you as a diabetic. This can be especially important during field trips or sports activities to let others know about your condition if you are unconscious, says the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Step 2
Keep your supplies with you at school to measure your blood sugar, like strips and meters. The strips should be kept in their original vials to keep them from deteriorating, says the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Give low blood sugar kits to your school nurse or teachers as well, including juice boxes or glucose tabs with written instructions about how and when to administer these.
Step 3
Review school menus with your parents to choose healthy selections that fit into your diet, or pack your own lunch to bring to school. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest packing an extra snack or two for later in the afternoon to help stabilize blood sugar and avoid trips to a vending machine for unhealthy snacks.
Step 4
Talk to your teachers and guidance counselor about any special needs you may have regarding strenuous exercise during physical education, snack needs throughout the day, when your parents or doctor should be called, and any other concerns you may have. Having plans in place can help make you feel more comfortable. Give your physician's phone number to the school if they have any questions, if you feel comfortable doing so.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your doctor about anything that she would recommend that your school should know in case of a diabetic emergency. She can help you write up a health care plan for school that you can show to your teachers or school officials.
- If managing your diabetes at school is difficult, talk with your doctor. Poorly controlled diabetes can be dangerous, and it is important to let a professional know if you are having trouble with your condition.
Things You'll Need
- Medical ID bracelet or necklace
- Extra glucose monitoring supplies
- Low blood sugar kits
