Diabetes Information for Parents
Until recently, children got only Type 1 diabetes. With the spread of childhood obesity, a lot more children are also being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Kids with either Type 1 or Type 2 can lead healthy, active lives when communities, providers, and schools work with parents to ensure their children can participate safely in any activities.
What You Should Do
- Look for warning signs that your child should be tested for diabetes. Remember that Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are different. Type 1 usually has an acute (sudden) onset. Early symptoms include:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Constant hunger
- Weight loss
- Blurred vision
- Extreme tiredness
- Children and teens with Type 2 diabetes may not have any symptoms. If your child is overweight and does not exercise, talk to your pediatrician about testing for Type 2 diabetes.
- If your child is diagnosed, work with your family doctor to develop a treatment plan, and then work with the whole family to develop a nutrition and exercise plan.
- Carefully regulate the timing, size, and contents of your child's meals and snacks.
- Work with your child to check blood sugar regularly and recognize signs of low blood sugar. more
- Coordinate with your child’s school.
What We Do
- Develop care plans and work with providers and School Nurse Teachers to ensure each child with diabetes has a school health care plan. more
Rhode Island Department of Health