Sleepovers & Sugar Checks
So, the day has come- your child with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) has been invited to their first sleepover! It’s a huge milestone, both for them and for you. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Will they remember to check their blood sugar? Will they wake up if they go low? What if the other parents aren’t familiar with diabetes care?
Take a deep breath. You’ve got this. And more importantly- your child has this! With a little planning and preparation, they can have a fun, safe night with their friends, and you can rest a little easier knowing they’re prepared.
Step 1: Set the Stage for Success
Before the big night, have a chat with your child about what they’ll need to do while they’re away. Go over their blood sugar checks, insulin dosing and how to handle lows and highs. Keep it positive- this is an exciting experience, and they are fully capable of handling it!
If your child is younger or newly diagnosed, consider making a checklist for them to keep in their bag.
Something simple like:
Check BG before bed
Treat lows if needed
Set an alarm if necessary
Text/call home if unsure
Step 2: Talk to the Host Parents
This is often the biggest concern for parents: Will the other parents know what to do? Here’s the good news- most parents want to help and will follow your guidance. Give them a quick, simple rundown of what they need to know, like:
Your child might need a snack before bed.
If they seem shaky, sweaty or confused they should check their blood sugar.
If they have a CGM, an alarm might go off-what to do if that happens.
If an emergency happens (very unlikely!), when to use glucagon and when to call 999.
Most children with T1D can manage their care independently, but it’s always helpful for the host parents to have some basic awareness. If they seem nervous, reassure them that your child is experienced in handling their diabetes and that you’re just a phone call away.
Step 3: Pack Smart
Think of this as an adventure pack- your child’s diabetes bag should be stocked with:
Extra test strips and a glucose meter (even if they use a CGM)
Insulin & pump supplies (if applicable)
Low treatments (glucose tabs, juice boxes, fruit snacks, etc.)
A small bedtime snack (cheese strings, granola bars- whatever works for their routine)
Emergency glucagon (with simple instructions for the host family)
Encourage your child to double-check their supplies before heading out, and if they’re using a CGM, make sure it’s well-secured so it doesn’t come off overnight.
Step 4: Set Up a Check-In Plan
Decide in advance how and when your child will check in with you. Some kids prefer a quick text before bed to share their numbers, while others might not want to be in constant contact. Respect their independence but have a plan in place that makes you both comfortable.
If your child is wearing a CGM that shares data with your phone, you might be tempted to monitor their numbers all night. If this gives you peace of mind, go for it- but also trust them to handle things. They’re learning important independence skills, and this is a great step toward that.
Step 5: Celebrate Their Success!
When they come home, celebrate the win! Ask them how it went, if they had fun and if there was anything they’d like to do differently next time. This is a big step toward independence, and every successful sleepover builds confidence in both you and your child.
And remember- T1D doesn’t stop your child from having fun, making memories and being a child. They’re learning how to manage their diabetes in real-world situations, and you’re guiding them every step of the way.
So, deep breaths. You’re raising a strong, capable and resilient child, and they’re going to have an amazing time!
