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Diabetes Information for Teachers
TIPS FOR TEACHERS OF STUDENTS WITH DIABETES

(Adapted from Loudoun County , VA Public Schools’ 10 Tips for Teachers
 
EVERY CHILD WITH DIABETES IS DIFFERENT.

Each and every child with diabetes may be different symptoms of low blood sugar.  Although many of the symptoms may be similar, they will not always be the same.  Situations that can affect your student’s blood sugar are: insulin, food intake, exercise, illness, stress and/or any changes in routine.  Soon you will get to know your own student’s unique individuality and their typical reactions to low blood sugar.

 DON’T DRAW UNNECESSARY ATTENTION TO YOUR STUDENT’S CONDITION.

Your student with diabetes may have to eat snacks periodically in the classroom.  In addition to your student’s designated snack time, remember that he or she MUST eat whenever they feel low.  This is imperative, especially if the student is unable to have his or her blood sugar level checked first.  This is NOT a choice for the child with diabetes, but a necessity!

 PROVIDE INCONSPICUOUS AND GENTLE REMINDERS.

Pay close attention to your student’s regular snack time. Not all children (especially the very young) can tell time, or are going to remember their snack time. If you haven’t noticed them eating, pass them a note or work out a special “password” between the two of you that reminds them of their snack time.

 DO NOT PUT A “LABEL” ON THE STUDENT WITH DIABETES.

Never single a child with diabetes out as the “diabetic” kid.  First and foremost, the child with diabetes needs and want to feel unique and special, just like every other student in your class.

 DO NOT SYMPATHIZE: EMPATHIZE

A child with diabetes does not want to need your sympathy.  These children need understanding, acceptance and support. Educate yourself in every way possible and diabetes. Learn how it may affect them and have compassion for how they must live their lives each and every day.

 ALWAYS BE PREPARED.

Always carry a quick and portable snack WHENEVER you and your student with diabetes leave the classroom or the school grounds. This is especially important during fire drills, earthquake drills, field trips, special presentations and/or assemblies.  A small can of juice together with crackers may work best.

 USE THE BUDDY SYSTEM.

If your student with diabetes tells you he or she feels low, then give the student a quick-acting carbohydrate snack such as fruit juice, regular soda, or glucose tabs.  If your student needs to see the nurse, ALWAYS send a “buddy” (someone who won’t object) with them. Never leave a child alone or sent anywhere alone when experiencing low blood sugar.

ALLOW UNRESTRICTED BATHROOM BREAKS.

When given the opportunity, let he child with diabetes know that it’s okay to go to the bathroom WHENEVER necessary and have a water bottle when blood sugar is high.  If their blood sugar is running high, their body’s natural response to eliminate the extra glucose by using the bathroom. Don’t make them feel embarrassed by having to ask you for permission.

 BE PATIENT.

Be patient if the student with diabetes has minor problems with organization. High and/or low blood sugar levels may make it difficult for them to concentrate at items.  You may have to repeat some things, especially if they’ve been to the nurse’s office during class time.

 KEEP THE LINES OF COMMUNICATIONS OPEN.

Always work as a team with the student, caregivers, school nurse and other educators.  If there is a special school party or occasion where “treats” are to be served, let the family know in advance, if possible.  This allows the family to discuss the options with the child so that he or she can make responsible choices.  Often, many treats can be worked into the child’s meal plan.

 KNOWLEDGE IS POWER.

Learn as much as you can about diabetes in children.  Consider completing a training to enable you to perform essential key diabetes care tasks such as blood glucose monitoring and insulin and glucagon administration.  Your willingness to learn about diabetes and being prepared to perform care tasks or provide supervision as necessary will ensure a safe classroom environment and enable your student to attain optimal academic performance.

For more information, go to www.diabetes.org or call 800-DIABETES.