Babysitting

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Suggestions for a Child with Diabetes

One of the questions commonly asked by parents when their child has been newly diagnosed with insulin-dependent diabetes is "what do we do about babysitters?" Often parents feel guilty leaving their child, afraid that something will happen when they are gone.

The following are possible solutions to help with this problem:

• Start out by having the child stay with close friends and family members to help you feel comfortable about going out.
• Ask the person to come over a couple of days beforehand so that you can teach them how to care for your child.
• Give them a brief description of what diabetes is. Talk about how to recognize and treat low blood sugar reactions. Instruct them about what they will need to do while you are away - blood testing, insulin injections, meals and snacks.
• Give specific instructions on whatever will be required (i.e. at 8pm, Sally will receive a snack consisting of....) You will also want to provide alternative snacks in case your child refuses what you had planned.
• Finally, provide telephone numbers that might be needed, including where you can be reached.