Building Your T1D Dream Team: You Don’t Have to Do This Alone!
Every superhero needs a sidekick, and every parent of a Type 1 child or teenager needs a dream team- a group of people who will support, guide and cheer you on as you navigate this new normal. Think of it as assembling the Avengers, but with fewer capes and more jelly babies.
Here’s who should be on your squad and how they can help:
1. The Medical Team- Your Diabetes Experts
Paediatric Diabetes Consultant- Your child’s diabetes doctor, aka the one who explains the science behind everything, adjusts insulin plans, and reassures you that, yes, even the most perfect carb-counting can sometimes go completely rogue (because, well, diabetes).
Diabetes Specialist Nurse (DSN)- The real MVPs. These nurses are your go-to for everything- adjusting insulin doses, troubleshooting high and low blood sugars, and calming you down when you’re convinced you’ve messed up (spoiler: you haven’t). They’re also fantastic at explaining things in a way that actually makes sense.
Dietitian- The person who helps you master the fine art of carb counting, meal planning and figuring out why on earth pasta seems to spike blood sugars six hours after eating it.
Psychologist- Because Type 1 isn’t just physical- it’s emotional too. If you or your child ever feel overwhelmed, anxious or just done with diabetes, a psychologist can be a great source of support. #
Top Tip: Save your medical team’s contact details on your phone. You will have urgent questions, and knowing you can reach out makes a world of difference.
2. Your Child’s School- Making Sure They’re Supported
Teachers & School Staff- Your child’s school needs to be in the loop. Whether they’re in nursery, primary school or high school, their teachers, teaching assistants and lunchtime staff all play a role in keeping them safe. The more they understand Type 1, the easier school life will be.
Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP/HCP)- This is like a diabetes battle plan for school. It outlines everything- when to check blood sugars, what to do for hypos, insulin needs and what to do in an emergency.
SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) or 1:1 Support- If your child needs extra assistance (like help with injections or checking blood sugars), a SENCO or a teaching assistant might be involved.
Top Tip: Regularly check in with school staff to see how things are going. Diabetes is always changing, and what worked last term might need tweaking this term.
3. Family & Friends- Your Everday Support Crew
Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and Babysitters- Anyone who regularly looks after your child should have a basic understanding of Type 1. This doesn’t mean they need to become insulin experts overnight, but they do need to know the signs of highs and lows and how to treat a hypo.
Friends and Playdate Parents- Playdates, sleepovers and birthday parties are still totally possible with T1D- it just takes a little extra planning. Giving other parents a “Diabetes 101” cheat sheet can help them feel more confident, and it means your child doesn’t miss out on fun.
Top Tip: Create a simple, easy-to-follow “What to Do in a Hypo” guide and share it with babysitters and playdate hosts. Peace of mind for everyone!
4. Other Type 1 Parents- The Ones Who Really Get It
No one understands like with Type 1 Diabetes quite like another parent who’s been there. These are the people who won’t blink when you start talking about time-in-range percentages or why night-time blood sugars seem to have a mind of their own.
Online Support Groups-There are loads of amazing groups and forums for parents of kids with Type 1. They’re great for advice, support and reassurance (and for knowing you’re not the only one who’s been woken up by a 3 AM CGM alarm).
Local Meet-Ups & Breatkthrough T1D/ Diabetes UK Events- If you can, find other families in your area. There’s something incredibly reassuring about meeting someone who just gets it- no explaining required.
Diabetes Camps & Activity Days- These can be life-changing for your child. It’s a chance for them to meet other children with Type 1, learn new skills and realise they’re not alone.
Top Tip: Follow UK diabetes charities like DIabetes UK and Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF)- they often run events, webinars and local meet-ups that can be super helpful.
5. Most Importantly….YOU!
Yes, YOU are the most important person on your child’s team. You are the one learning, adjusting and advocating for them every single day. While that can feel overwhelming, know this: you are doing an incredible job.
This is a marathon, not a sprint. Some days will be hard. Some nights will be sleepless. But you are stronger than you think, and you are never alone in this journey.
Lean on your team. Ask for help when you need it. And remember- no one expects you to be perfect. You’ve got this and we’ve got you.