inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf

inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf
get healthing in your inbox with the morning checkup and weekender newsletter!

top of the page

type 1 diabetes: your child's role in care

overview

children with type 1 diabetes can and should take part in their treatment. as children get older and more experienced with the disease, they can participate more in their treatment.

  • toddlers and preschool-aged children usually can't do tasks for diabetes care, such as giving insulin or checking blood sugar. but as they get older, they typically can help with these tasks.
  • children in elementary school can help with all tasks required for their care. with supervision, many children can test their blood sugar level.
  • children in middle school should be able to test their own blood sugar level. some children can give insulin shots as long as this happens with supervision.
  • teens should be able to handle their own care with appropriate supervision. teens may choose to use an insulin pump instead of shots. if they use a pump, they still need supervision from adults.

credits

current as of: october 2, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

advertisement