Support for Children with Type 1 Diabetes
When your child is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D), it can be overwhelming and scary. But you’re not alone. The Breakthrough T1D community is here to support you and your family every step of the way.
Type 1 Diabetes Support and Resources
A helpful introduction to life with type 1 diabetes created by people living with T1D and medical experts.
Learn how to help your child with T1D build the skills to manage it someday on their own.
Support and resources to help you and your child succeed, from preschool through college!
Find your local chapter, attend an event, or join our online community.
Breakthrough T1D Bag of Hope
Our free Breakthrough T1D Bag of Hope™ is filled with resources and support for children with type 1 diabetes and their caregivers.
A cuddly friend to show your child they are not alone while learning to take insulin and check their blood sugar. Rufus has special patches to interact with a free mobile companion app that can open up a new world of learning and playing for you and your child with diabetes!
An introductory guide to type 1 diabetes (T1D) created with care by people living with T1D, their families, and medical experts. Learn T1D basics, what you should know about blood sugar and insulin, how to educate others about T1D, and where to find more information.
A storybook about your child’s new cuddly friend.
A widely acclaimed, easy to follow, comprehensive handbook on how to manage diabetes.
- Fun stickers from Breakthrough T1D
- Information about Breakthrough T1D and how you can get involved
- An illustrated overview of low and high blood sugar causes, symptoms, and treatments
Rufus, the Bear with Diabetes App
Rufus, the Bear with Diabetes is a free app to make learning about type 1 diabetes fun for children and caregivers.
By helping Rufus manage his diabetes, children gain hands-on practice with counting carbs, monitoring blood sugar, and dosing with insulin using virtual diabetes care tools.
Download the app now!
When my son was diagnosed it was a very difficult time. The Bag of Hope and Rufus helped him understand his situation a little better. It’s easier for him to receive his insulin shots and have his fingers ‘poked’ knowing Rufus also has to manage his T1D.”
Learn About Type 1 Diabetes
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
Watch Next
How is Type 1 Diabetes Managed?
What Causes Type 1 Diabetes?
What is Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)?
Type 1 Diabetes Technology
Technology can make managing T1D easier and safer. Learn more about continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), automated insulin delivery systems, and smart insulin pens.
Managing the Stress and Emotions of T1D
Taking care of your child’s mental health—as well as your own—is just as important as managing blood-glucose levels and administering insulin. Learn how to handle the stress, anxiety, and loss of sleep associated with type 1 diabetes.
Support for All Ages and Stages
Breakthrough T1D is here to support you and your family at every step on your type 1 diabetes journey.
Information and encouragement to help teens adjust to life with T1D.
Tools to educate, support, and inspire newly diagnosed adults.
Community Reading Room
Explore our digital library of book recommendations curated for people living with T1D and the people who love and support them, creating a shared experience with every page.
