Navigating social situations with T1D
Type 1 diabetes shouldn’t get in the way of your child’s ability to participate in activities and spend time with friends.
Instill confidence in your child
As a parent of a child with type 1 diabetes (T1D), it’s normal to feel anxious about their safety and health when they’re away from you. T1D adds another layer of worry to the already stressful role of parenting.
As your child grows up, your greatest responsibility beyond managing their diabetes becomes empowering them to manage their diabetes safely on their own. Those skills and knowledge develop over time, and they’ll need room to make mistakes, too.
Teach a babysitter T1D basics
Leaving your child with T1D in the care of a babysitter can feel overwhelming, but it is doable. With today’s CGM and pump technology, teaching, and communicating with a babysitter from afar is easier. Our Begin with Hope Guide is a great resource to share with babysitters to help them understand T1D and how to treat high and low blood sugar.
Teach other parents about T1D
If you decide to let your child visit or have sleepovers at friends’ houses, consider scheduling a coffee date with their closest friends’ parents to help them learn the basics of T1D. Let these families support your child if they’re willing!
Talk to your teen about parties and alcohol
Teens will be teens, and T1D won’t change that. Be realistic about the fact that your teenager might choose to drink alcohol at a party, and you might be completely unaware. Teach them the basics of drinking alcohol with type 1 diabetes.
Set up check-in times when they’re away
You don’t want to nag your child when they’re spending time with friends. That isn’t good for your relationship or their diabetes management. Instead, try agreeing on a time to check in via text or a phone call. While you’re likely following their CGM data while they’re away, it’s important to give them space, too.
More parenting and relationship guidance
Guidance on helping your child build the skills and confidence to manage T1D someday on their own.
Helping your child through this time of transition and getting ready for adulthood.
Openness, honesty, and trust are key to successful relationships—especially with type 1 diabetes.
Things to consider when discussing your condition with others.
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