Children & Adolescents
We have a range of activities, resources and services dedicated to meeting the needs of children and adolescents with diabetes.
Diabetes and school
Children with diabetes can enjoy and participate in school life to the fullest, but it is important that the appropriate information is provided to those people who are responsible for their wellbeing while at school.
Type 1 diabetes is the form of diabetes most likely to be seen in children, however type 2 diabetes is increasingly being seen in school-age children.
New DVD & CD School resource
Diabetes Basics: a teacher’s guide to type 1 diabetes
We are proud to introduce a new type 1 diabetes educational resource for schools. This DVD/CD ROM package aims to give school teachers a basic understanding of type 1 diabetes, provides important information about the day-to-day management of diabetes, including blood glucose monitoring, insulin delivery, balancing food intake and exercise and the management of emergency situations that may occur.
The Diabetes Basics package contains:
- 30 minute educational film
- CD ROM of reproducible resources in PDF format including: an example diabetes school management plan, insulin pump information, hypoglycaemia management information and essential tips for schools
The package was sent to Victorian primary and secondary schools in January and is also available for purchase by calling 1300 136 588 or for interstate call 03 9667 1777. The cost is $15 + postage and handling. Download a Diabetes Basics information flyer.
School tips
It is essential for schools with a student or students who have diabetes that they develop an action plan appropriate to the specific needs of that student.
Development of such a plan must involve consultation between the parent(s) or carer(s), diabetes educator and relevant members of the school staff. It should have a photograph of the student and address all special requirements and issues relating to the student's care and diabetes management for all school activities, including:
- Provision for storage and taking of medication
- Education of the school community in relation to diabetes and its management
- Emergency procedures eg in the case of a 'hypo'
- Provision for school excursions and other extra-curricular activities, including sport
- Provision for review at least annually, or if there is a change in the student's condition and/or medication
With parental consent, the student's diabetes educator can provide more information.
Examinations
Students with diabetes face additional challenges around exam time. At the beginning of each year, the student should discuss their specific requirements with their teachers.
- Students who have diabetes must be allowed to take food and blood glucose-testing equipment into examinations
- Extra time should be given for testing, treatment and recovery from 'hypos' as necessary
The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) recognises that some students with a disability/illness/condition may require Special Examination Arrangements to enable them to access the examination questions and communicate their responses in a timed examination.
Students who think they might be eligible for this Special Provision must apply to their VCE Coordinator. The school must apply to the VCAA by completing the application form and include the appropriate supporting medical, psychological and educational documentation. This application should be completed early in the school year
For more information visit the VCAA special provisions page
Diabetes Camps Victoria
Independence through Adventure
The Camps program which is managed by a consortium of Diabetes Australia – Vic, the Royal Children’s Hospital and Monash Medical Centre provides four camps throughout the year for children aged 8 to 17 years.
Camps are supported by a team of health professionals, volunteer camp leaders and coordinators and provide a fantastic opportunity for young people to be among peers with diabetes, share their experiences and learn from one another in a fun and relaxed environment.
Resources
We produce a number of resources which are specifically designed to be used by children and young people and some that are suitable for all ages. Rescources can be downloaded and can also be ordered by calling 1300 136 588.
High & Low is an informative fold out information card which provides the answers to some frequently asked questions and dispels some diabetes myths.
Diabetes & Eating Disorders is an information booklet that has been developed for people with type 1 diabetes, their families and friends to explain the different types of eating disorders and why people with type 1 diabetes may have a higher risk of developing an eating disorder.
Insulin Pump Information booklet provides the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about insulin pump therapy.
Six in the City - The 2008 series of Six in the City information evenings is now available on DVD and can be ordered by calling 1300 136 588.
Events & activities
There are many information seminars and events throughout the year catering specifically for the needs of people with type 1 diabetes. Some are designed around children such as the DA–Vic Family Fun Day during National Diabetes Week in July. There is usually one Six in the City session for children, teens and families. Other events are not necessarily for children but are open to parents who may benefit from the information presented.
In 2007 and 2008 we held an art competition as a positive way for young people with diabetes to express themselves and their feelings about having diabetes in a creative way.
The type 1 diabetes program at DA-Vic coordinates and supports a number of type 1 diabetes support groups in metropolitan Melbourne and regional areas of Victoria. For more information the coordinator can be contacted on (03) 9667 1721.
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