Type 1 Diabetes (Informational Materials)
Parents
Type 1 Diabetes
What is Type 1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body does not produce insulin, a hormone that helps change sugar (glucose) from food into energy. This life-threatening condition causes high levels of sugar in the blood. Without insulin, glucose gets “stuck” in the bloodstream and the body cannot use it for energy. Type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes, is the most common type of diabetes diagnosed in children and young adults under 20 years of age, which is why parents and guardians need to know how to support their children.
Managing Diabetes at School
Support: It is important to partner with your child’s school to ensure they have a good experience and get the support they need. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has published suggestions for how to most effectively work with your child’s school on its Managing Diabetes at School webpage.
Develop a Plan: Schools are required to have a care plan for students with diabetes (or other chronic health conditions). The plan outlines specific services, accommodations, and supports tailored to the student’s needs.
School Nurse: You will work with your child's school nurse to plan a supportive way to help manage your child’s health during the school day. They can help administer insulin and monitor your child’s health during school hours.
Informational materials for parents and guardians of students are now available on ISBE’s School Wellness webpage, via the following link: