I never imagined I’d be a Type 1 mom or an advocate for Type 1 Diabetes. But after my own child was diagnosed, I quickly realized how important it is to educate others about the challenges kids with Type 1 face. Raising awareness in schools is crucial for creating empathy, understanding, and inclusion for all students.
Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition that affects children and adults, requiring constant monitoring of blood sugar levels and insulin administration. While it’s a daily challenge, it doesn’t define the kids who live with it. By promoting awareness and inclusion in schools, we can help create an environment where all students, regardless of their health conditions, feel seen, supported, and empowered. Here are eight ways we can promote inclusion of Type 1 Diabetes in schools especially in Nov which is being recognized as Diabetes Awareness month.
1. Read Books Featuring Characters with Type 1 Diabetes
Incorporating books that feature characters with Type 1 Diabetes is a simple yet impactful way to raise awareness. Representation matters, and when students read stories that reflect the experiences of their peers, it helps build empathy and understanding. Consider books like “Teddy Talks” or “Even Superheroes Get Diabetes” and "Think Big!: Believe, Achieve and Soar High" in classroom read-aloud or library displays to spark conversations and help students understand the realities of T1D.
2. Create a Diabetes Awareness Display in School Libraries
Librarians can highlight books and resources that represent children with T1D, promoting curiosity and understanding. A visible display encourages students to explore and learn more about the condition.
3. Organize Classroom Activities to Teach About T1D
There are many creative ways to teach students about Type 1 Diabetes through interactive activities. For example, the Pod Print Activity is a fun, hands-on project where kids can design their own “pods” (which resemble insulin pumps) using markers or crayons. Afterward, students can ask their classmates with T1D to pick their favorite design. This simple activity not only teaches students about the technology used to manage T1D but also opens the door to conversations about how insulin is delivered. It makes learning about the condition engaging and inclusive.
Free download of this activity is available on my website and for full activity book go to my TPT resources
4. Invite Guest Speakers
Hearing directly from a child or adult living with Type 1 Diabetes helps personalize the condition for students. Schools can host guest speakers to share their experiences and answer questions.
Every year, my daughter and I give a short presentation to her class about Type 1 Diabetes, and it makes a significant impact on the students' understanding of the condition.
5. Host a ‘Wear Blue Day’ for Diabetes Awareness
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and blue is the color associated with diabetes. Hosting a "Wear Blue Day" at school is a fun and easy way to get the entire school involved in raising awareness for Type 1 Diabetes. This creates an opportunity to educate students on what diabetes is, how it affects children, and how they can support their classmates living with the condition.
By taking small, thoughtful steps like these, we can make schools more inclusive environments where every child feels supported and understood, regardless of their health challenges.
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