Whether your child is starting a new school year or returning to school after a new diagnosis, managing type 1 diabetes (T1D) in the classroom can be overwhelming. Going to school with type 1 diabetes requires paperwork, special planning, and many conversations with teachers, school nurses, and other students.
Breakthrough T1D is here with support and resources to help you and your child succeed, from preschool through college!
Preschool and elementary school
Sending your younger child with T1D to school can be an emotional time. Staying organized can help ease anxiety and give parents peace of mind. It’s also important to partner with the school team, including the principal, teachers, nurse, and counselor to ensure your child is receiving proper care in the classroom.
Breakthrough T1D offers a number of printable quick reference sheets to help parents and educate school staff:
Returning to school after a T1D diagnosis
Sending your child back to school after their T1D diagnosis can feel daunting. With the right tools and support, your child can return to the classroom with confidence.
High school
Even though the relationship changes with school staff in high school, it’s still important to keep the lines of communication open. Testing accommodations become a larger issue in high school, especially for standardized tests like the SATs and AP tests. Having a 504 Plan provides your child with the accommodations they need, such as time and a half or breaks to treat high or low blood sugar.
Encouraging your child to become more independent in managing T1D in high school is critical, especially with college on the horizon.
504 Plans
Working with your healthcare provider and school team to develop a diabetes management plan is crucial to ensuring a safe and successful school environment for your child. Many families have a 504 Plan, a written legal document specifying what reasonable modifications and accommodations the school must provide for a child with a disability, including T1D.
College
Heading off to college is both exciting and scary. Our Transitioning to Independence Guide, written by young adults with T1D, provides guidance on preparing for college, requesting accommodations, managing relationships, and studying abroad. We also have information about drinking alcohol with type 1 diabetes, a common concern during the college years.
Living with the burden of type 1 diabetes can be overwhelming, but you are never alone. Breakthrough T1D is here to make everyday life better for the people who face it!
