For Parents

When your child is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes it affects the whole family.

Even when your child has had type 1 diabetes for many years there are still adjustments to be made with each new activity or growth spurt. It can be a constant learning curve. But you are not alone, many parents before you have been down this very path.
SUPPORT

How can JDRF help?

JDRF was founded by parents of children with type 1 diabetes. We are dedicated to finding a cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications through the support of research.
You can stay up to date on the latest type 1 diabetes research breakthroughs and get connected to the type 1 diabetes community by subscribing to the JDRF quarterly type 1 diabetes newsletter.
Get involved in our support programs or make a difference by participating in one of our fundraising events. JDRF are here to help – you are not alone.
JDRF PEER SUPPORT

Parents need support too

The best advice will usually come from people who have ‘been there’. Sometimes you just need to talk to someone who really understands what you are going through. That’s why the JDRF Peer Support Program connects people newly affected by type 1 diabetes with a volunteer who has been through the same experience and can offer practical help and advice.
Type 1 diabetes can be overwhelming, and ‘diabetes burnout’ in parents is not uncommon. If you feel like you need to talk, there is support. Contact the JDRF Peer Support Program today to speak to a volunteer.
EVERYDAY TYPE 1 DIABETES

School

Students with type 1 diabetes need a strong support network at school. It’s important for parents to build good relationships with teachers and staff. Students with diabetes may face challenges with events like school camps and excursions. The journey is different for everyone. For advice contact the JDRF team.

Sport

Children with type 1 diabetes should be encouraged to play sport and exercise. Testing their blood glucose before and after exercise, and recording their food intake and type of exercise will help you to see the trends in their blood glucose levels. Knowing this, you and your child’s diabetes team can come up with a workable strategy.

Sleepovers

All kids love to sleep over at a friend’s place. This can make parents of children with diabetes especially anxious. Plan the stay and give the host parent(s) simple advice on meal requirements, timings and hypos. Make sure the family understands when and how to contact you. It’s also a good idea to talk to your diabetes team about an insulin plan for sleepovers.