Tackling CGM Anxiety with Fun, Confidence and Smiles

For many parents with toddlers and children with T1D, CGMs are a lifesaver. They reduce the need for finger pricks, help spot highs and lows early and make diabetes management smoother. However, let’s be real- convincing a little one to wear a CGM or sit still for an insertion can feel like herding cats…while blindfolded…in a storm.

Let’s explore some tried and tested ways to reduce anxiety and help your child feel confident about their CGM.

1. Understanding CGM Anxiety in Children

For toddlers and children, the idea of something being stuck to their skin for days can feel overwhelming. If insertions are uncomfortable or past experiences have been stressful, fear and resistance can build up.

Common worries include:

• Pain & discomfort- “Will it hurt?”

• Loss of control- “I don’t want something on my body!”

• Sensory issues- “It feels weird! I don’t like it!”

• Fear of the unknown- “What’s happening to me?”

The key is to acknowledge their feelings while giving them strategies to feel safe, involved and empowered.

2. Turning CGM Insertions into a Positive Experience

Make it a Game

Kids love to play, so why not turn insertions into a fun routine?

Pick a Role-Playing Theme:

• Superhero Mode- “Your CGM gives you special powers to fight sugar monsters!”

• Doctor & Patient- Let them “insert” a pretend CGM on a stuffed animal first.

• Magic Spell Mode- Count down to “activate” the sensor like a magic potion.

Pro Tip: Let them hold a “magic wand” (cold spoon, mini ice pack or a fidget toy) while you insert the sensor- it gives them something to focus on.

Offer a Reward System

Motivation goes a long way! Try a sticker chart, small treats or extra screen time as a reward after each successful CGM change.

Example: The CGM Star Chart

• 1 sticker for a calm insertion

• 1 sticker for wearing the CGM all day

• 5 stickers = a special reward (small toy, extra bedtime story, etc)

Distraction is Your Best Friend

Keeping their mind off the insertion can reduce anxiety.

Try These Distractions:

• Let them watch their favourite TV show or play a game during the change

• Sing a silly song together while inserting the CGM

• Blow bubbles or have them take deep “dragon breaths” to stay calm.

Pro Tip: Give them a small squeezy toy or stress ball to hold during insertions- it keeps their hands busy.

Minimise the Ouch Factor

If pain is a big worry, try these tricks to make insertions more comfortable:

Numb the Area First:

• Ice pack for 30 seconds before insertion

• Buzzy Bee- A vibrating pain relief tool that helps distract nerves

• Lidocaine cream (Ask your GP or pharmacy)- Can be applied before insertion (just check with your diabetes team first)

Pro Tip: Use Skin Barriers for Comfort- If the CGM feels itchy, try Cavilon Barrier Wipes or an underpatch (ExpressionMed UnderPatch) to reduce irritation.

3. Helping Your Child Feel in Control

One of the hardest parts for children is feeling like they have no say in what happens to their body. Giving them small choices can make a big difference!

Let Them Be the Boss (a Little!)

Let the choose:

• “Do you want your CGM on your arm or your leg today?”

• “Which colour sticker/tape should we use over it?”

Give them a countdown:

• “Do you want to count to 3 before I insert it, or do you want me to surprise you?”

Let them decorate their CGM

• Use fun stickers, colourful tape or character-themed CGM covers to make it feel special

Pro Tip: Try calling the CGM something fun, like “your power button” or “your superhero patch.”

4. Handling Sensor Adhesion Issues (a.k.a. “Mummy, it’s falling off!”)

Many toddlers are wriggly little escape artists, and keeping a CGM in place can be a challenge.

• Use Stronger Tape- RockaDex, Not Just a Patch or Fixomull help keep CGMs secure

• Try an Underpatch- can help prevent skin irritation and peeling

• Get Them Involved- Let them press down the CGM tape themselves to feel in control.

5. What to Do if They’re Still Anxious

If your child still struggles with CGM insertions, don’t panic- it’s completely normal! Some children just need more time to adjust.

Keep Talking About It- Acknowledge their feelings and reassure them:

• “I know it’s scary, but you are SO brave.”

• “It’s okay to feel nervous. Let’s take deep breaths together.”

Use Books & Videos- Seeing other kids with CGMs can help them feel less alone. Try:

• “Year One with Type One” by Mike Suarez (great for little ones!)

• YouTube videos of children showing off their CGMs

Consider Play Therapy- If anxiety is severe, a diabetes psychologist or play therapist can help work through fears in a fun, engaging way.

6. Celebrate Their Bravery!

No matter how the insertion goes, praise their effort- even if there were tears.

Ways to Celebrate:

• A “Bravery Certificate” after each insertion

• An extra bedtime story for being a CGM champion

• A small treat (stickers, sweets or a hug and high five!)

Remember: Over time, CGMs become just another part of life. Your child will build confidence, and one day, they might even insert their own CGM with pride!

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!

Helping a toddler or a child with CGM insertions isn’t always easy, but patience, creativity and positive reinforcement can make all the difference.

To all the parents out there managing CGM struggles- you’re doing an amazing job. Your little one is lucky to have you in their corner, helping them navigate diabetes with love and support.