Diabetes at School and Preschool
Children with type 1 diabetes need understanding and support at school and preschool. With informed teachers and caring peers, they can feel safe, included, and ready to grow.
This content is not medical advice. Always consult your endocrinologist, doctor or diabetes care team before making any changes to your diabetes treatment or daily management.
Diabetes in Preschool
Preschool-aged children are completely dependent on adults when it comes to type 1 diabetes. Teachers and other staff in preschool must be familiar with the basics of the condition, especially the symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. Knowing when a child needs a snack, when it is necessary to check blood glucose, or when to call the parents can prevent serious complications.
At this age, a child is not able to explain how they feel, which makes the responsibility of adults even greater. If a teacher notices that the child looks pale, tired, or suddenly starts crying, this may be a sign of low blood sugar and requires immediate action. In some preschools, a personal assistant or healthcare professional is present, providing additional safety for both the child and the parents.
Diabetes in School
Starting school brings new challenges but also opportunities for greater independence. Teachers play an important role, not only in education but also in creating a safe and supportive environment for a child with diabetes. They need to know how to recognize signs of low or high blood sugar, allow the child to take a break for a snack or glucose check, and provide support in emergency situations.
In practice, this means that a child may sometimes need to break the usual “classroom rules.” For example, if a student suddenly takes out a chocolate bar and eats it during class, this is not misbehavior but a necessary response to hypoglycemia. Similarly, if the child needs to check their glucose level in the middle of a lesson or leave the classroom early for a snack, this is part of their therapy and should not be seen as a privilege. Understanding these situations makes the difference between support and stigmatization.
In addition to teachers, the wider school team – psychologist, counselor, and school nurse – plays an important role in helping the child attend classes without interruption. In some schools, assistants or healthcare professionals are available, which provides parents with peace of mind and helps the child feel safe.
Children with type 1 diabetes are, above all, still children. With the right support, they can learn, play, and grow just like their peers.
Peers and Social Inclusion
Diabetes in children is not only a medical challenge but also a social one. Children often face questions from their peers, and sometimes even teasing. If classmates understand that a device that “beeps” or a sensor on the arm helps their friend stay healthy, they are more likely to accept it. Simple explanations from teachers or parents can prevent misunderstandings and create a supportive atmosphere.
When peers know the basics, they can become an important source of help. For example, if they notice their classmate becoming pale, sweaty, or shaky, they can immediately inform the teacher. In some cases, it is the peers who react first and thereby prevent serious consequences.
The role of teachers and caregivers is to actively promote empathy and prevent stigma. In this way, the child does not have to feel isolated but instead develops confidence and self-esteem.
Education of School and Preschool Staff
The best way to make a school or preschool a safe environment for a child with diabetes is for staff to receive basic training. This can be organized by a diabetes care team, a trained nurse, or an endocrinologist. During such training sessions, staff learn how to recognize early symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, when urgent action is required, and practical steps such as administering glucagon.
Formal education like this reduces uncertainty among teachers and caregivers, while giving parents peace of mind knowing their child is not alone.
Family and School – Shared Responsibility
Parents play a key role in connecting everyone involved. An Individual Diabetes Care Plan provides clear instructions for teachers, caregivers, and other staff: when the child eats, how insulin is administered, what to do in case of hypoglycemia, and whom to call in an emergency.
It is not enough to provide these guidelines only at the beginning of the school year. Communication must be continuous, especially when teachers change or the child moves to a higher grade. Parents also gradually prepare the child for more independence — teaching them how to explain their needs to others, such as asking a teacher for a snack break or alerting someone if they feel unwell.
Family education is just as important as therapy itself, and schools that support parents by showing understanding reduce much of the stress and anxiety that families face. Having an emergency kit at school, along with regular updates and cooperation, creates a safety net in which the child can grow, learn, and thrive just like their peers.
Join as a T1D Warrior
Our T1D Warriors are children, parents of children with diabetes, and individuals living with type 1 diabetes who share their personal experiences to inspire and support others. Every story, every blog post, and every piece of advice you find here comes from someone who has truly lived it — with honesty, courage and a whole lot of heart. Together, we’re building a community where real-life experience truly makes a difference.
Want to inspire others with your T1D journey? Become a T1D Warrior and share your story.