10 Tips to Help Children and Teens with T1D Learn Carb Counting

Carb counting can feel like a whole new language when your child is first diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes- but just like learning to ride a bike, with a little practice (and a few wobbles along the way), children and teens can get the hang of it. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s building confidence and independence over time. Here’s how to make carb counting a natural part of every day life- at home, school and beyond.

1. Start With the Basics

Begin by explaining what carbs are and why they matter for blood glucose levels. Keep it simple and age-appropriate: for younger children, you might call them “energy foods,” and for teens, connect it to sports, energy levels or concentration at school.

2. Make It a Team Effort at Mealtimes

At home, involve your child in carb counting as soon as possible. For younger children, you can count carbs together when preparing meals or packing a lunch. Ask them questions such as:

• “How many crackers do you think are in one portion?”

• “Let’s check the label together- what number tells us the carbs?”

This turns carb counting into a learning moment rather than just something parents do behind the scenes.

3. The Power of Guesstimates

Not every snack or meal comes with a label, so teaching children how to eyeball portion sizes is key. You might say:

• “That apple is about 15g of carbs- same as a small slice of bread.”

• “This handful of crisps is about the same carbs as half a sandwich.”

Using everyday comparisons helps children build their own internal “carb library” they can draw on in any situation.

4. Apps and Tech Helpers

Older children and teens usually love having technology in their pocket. Carb counting apps- or the trusty Carbs and Cals app and book- let them look up foods, scan barcodes and log their meals. Encourage them to check their guesses against the app- like a fun challenge.

Pro Tip: Make it a game- “Guess the carbs, then check the app!”- and celebrate how close they get.

5. Counting Totals With Packed Lunches

Packed lunches are a great way to practise because you can count everything at home. For younger children, you can send a written note or lunch-bag card with carb amounts for teachers or school staff. For older children, let them take over: ask them to write down the totals for each part of their lunch and check their maths.

6. School Support for Younger Children

For toddlers and primary-aged children, it’s important that school staff are involved. Provide clear carb counts for the food you send, and teach staff how to read labels or refer to your notes. Over time, your child can start joining in, even if it’s just pointing to the carb number on the label.

7. Plate-by-Plate Learning for Teens

As children hit their teenage years, shift responsibility to them gradually. A good starting point is asking:

• “What’s the main carb on your plate?”

• “What do you think this pasta portion would be in grams?”

Then check together using the Carbs & Cals book or app. This builds independence and prepares them for situations when you’re not there to help.

8. Practice Out and About

Meals out can be tricky, but they’re also great practice. Encourage your child or teen to guesstimate before you check together on an app or menu. Little by little, they’ll build confidence to manage real-world situations like school trips, sleepovers and eating with friends.

9. Make It Positive and Fun

Carb counting can sometimes feel like a chore, so sprinkle in fun:

• Turn it into a guessing game.

• Use colourful visuals from books or apps

• Celebrate small wins (“You were only 3g off- amazing!”).

Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection

10. Growing Confidence = Growing Independence

The ultimate goal is for children and teens to feel confident estimating carbs, reading labels and using apps on their own. By starting early and practising step by step, you’re setting them up with a life skill that will support them through school, social life and into adulthood.

Final Takeaway

Carb counting doesn’t have to be stressful- it can be a family skill, a learning game, and eventually, a tool your child feels proud to master.