AUSTIN (KXAN) — Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a challenging autoimmune condition requiring lifelong insulin dependence. As the new school year approaches, managing T1D in a classroom setting can be daunting, but with careful planning, it is entirely manageable.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 352,000 children and adolescents under 20 years old are living with diabetes in the U.S., with the vast majority, over 300,000, diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. T1D is a chronic condition where the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, necessitating daily insulin management.
For parents of children with T1D, the back-to-school period can be particularly stressful. Ensuring a smooth transition while maintaining effective diabetes management requires a combination of preparation and communication.
Preparing for School: A Family’s Experience
Jon Kinder, whose son Jack is entering his freshman year of high school, knows this challenge all too well. Jack was diagnosed with T1D at 11 years old during the COVID-19 pandemic when schooling was virtual. This situation allowed the Kinder family to closely monitor Jack’s health from home. However, returning to in-person classes required a different approach.
“Each year, we visit the school to drop off supplies and build a relationship with the school nurse. It’s essential that Jack feels empowered to manage his diabetes independently, so we ensure he’s confident and knowledgeable about his condition,” Jon explained.
The Kinders also make a point of meeting with Jack’s teachers before the school year begins to discuss the potential health issues Jack might face. They emphasize that fluctuations in blood sugar levels aren’t solely caused by diet; stress and anxiety can also be significant factors.
“We establish good communication with the teachers so they understand that if Jack’s blood sugar levels are too high or too low, he might not be in the best condition to take a test. We’ve arranged for him to delay the test until his blood sugar stabilizes, usually within a few minutes,” Jon added.
Technology and School Policies
Many students with T1D use continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and other electronic devices to track their blood sugar levels throughout the day. It’s crucial for parents to inform teachers and school administrators about these devices, especially in schools with strict no-phone policies, as these devices often require a phone to display readings. Schools may need to make exceptions to these policies to accommodate students with diabetes.
Supporting Teachers and Building a Support Network
Breakthrough T1D, an advocacy group, suggests creating a “cheat sheet” for your child’s teachers. This sheet should include the child’s name, a photo, and clear, simple instructions on how to manage high and low blood sugar episodes. Additionally, securing a 504 plan that details all necessary accommodations and supports for your child is vital.
Connecting with other families who have children with T1D can also be beneficial. Together, you can work to educate the school community about the complexities of managing Type 1 diabetes. It’s important to recognize that T1D management is a 24/7 responsibility, and many people are unaware of how constant and demanding it can be.
A Message of Hope
Despite the challenges, managing Type 1 diabetes becomes more manageable over time. Jack Kinder, reflecting on his own experience, offered words of encouragement: “It gets easier. When I was first diagnosed, it felt overwhelming—I cried every night in the hospital. But after a few months, my blood sugar levels stabilized, and things started to improve.”
For parents seeking additional resources, a “Back to School with Type 1 Diabetes Checklist” is available to help ease the transition from summer to the school year, ensuring that your child’s diabetes is effectively managed in the classroom.
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