How to Prepare a Classroom for Children With Diabetes

Diabetes is a serious illness. Parents need to know their children will receive proper support for managing their illness, and you need to know you are prepared to create a safe environment for your students. By understanding the unique needs of a diabetic student, as well as preparing for the paperwork, medical releases and medications of an affected student, you can prepare a classroom that is ready for children with diabetes.

Instructions

1

Prepare your classroom for insulin and other medications. Children with type 1 diabetes require round-the-clock insulin management, and children with type 2 diabetes may also need insulin, or require other regularly administered medications. The schedule for taking these medications is not negotiable. Be prepared for possible interruptions if the sudden administration of medications is required.

2

Discuss medications and diabetic insulin with the school administration. Some schools have policies denying students the right to carry medications with them. For students with severe diabetes this may not be possible. According to the American Diabetes Association, older children should be allowed to handle self-management, which includes "monitoring blood glucose and responding to blood glucose levels with needed food and medication while utilizing appropriate safety protocols." Ask administrators about any medical releases or policy exceptions required to make sure your student has access to what he or she needs.

3

Educate yourself on how to spot signs of trouble in your diabetic students. It is important to be aware of serious symptoms that could lead to an emergency. Symptoms that a diabetic condition is getting out of control can include extreme thirst or hunger, dizziness, exhaustion, blurred vision, and unusually frequent urination. Have your student check his blood sugar if he self-manages, or take him to see the school nurse immediately if you suspect a problem.

4

Communicate openly with your diabetic students and their parents. Ask your diabetic students and their parents about the medications the students take and how often they need to take them. Ask about access to water and food during a blood sugar emergency. Find out how often glucose tests need to be performed. Make sure any medical releases from parents or physicians are in order right away. Take the opportunity to discuss diabetes and dangerous symptoms with all of your students. This will allow fellow students to be included in the supportive role, and also help them notice serious symptoms in their diabetic classmates. Help your diabetic student coordinate necessary administration of medications throughout the school day.

5

Encourage a healthy, low sugar diet. Communicate with parents about bringing healthier snacks for parties and holiday celebrations. This will allow equal, safe inclusion for all of your students, and will be much healthier for students who don't have diabetes. Encourage the substitution of foods like low-fat pizza instead of cake, and fruit juices instead of soda.