Special Occasions Guide
Just because your child has diabetes doesn't mean he or she needs to feel left out at birthday parties, school activities or on seasonal holidays. If you plan ahead you can make sure your son or daughter can fully participate, keep his or her blood glucose under control and still have fun!
The secret is balancing treats with activity and medication or insulin and emphasizing the fun non-food aspects of the event. Ask your diabetes health care team for specific instructions for handling special occasions.
Special Occasions Tips & Tricks
Birthday Parties
- Tip #1: Find out in advance what food will be served and when so you can plan your child's meals around the party that day.
- Tip #2: Split your child's meals or snacks the day of the party as needed so he or she can eat with the other children.
- Tip #3: Send along a treat your child enjoys and can eat as an alternative to cake and ice cream. Make enough for your child to share with friends.
Family Holiday Celebrations
- Tip #1: Include fun physical activities such as skiing, skating, family walks, bike rides, bowling or mini-golf as part of your holiday plans.
- Tip #2: Offer treats such as chocolate or candy canes one-at-a-time, instead of all at once and make sure there are always nutritious snacks available.
- Tip #3: Stuff Santa's stockings or the Easter Bunny's basket with toys, games, colouring books and other fun non-food treats.
Halloween
- Tip #1: Emphasize costumes, pumpkin carving and decorations more than candy.
- Tip #2: Sort Halloween loot with your child. Encourage your child to choose his or her favourites then offer those treats one-at-a-time instead of all at once.
- Tip #3: Encourage your child to trade or "sell" Halloween candy to you or siblings in return for fun non-food treats like a toy or game.
