Okay, your child has been diagnosed with diabetes and your family is now in a state of shock. Sure you feel your life has been turned upside down, but whatever feelings of confusion you are feeling are amplified that much more in your son or daughter. The insulin injections, blood tests and a lifetime of having to manage their blood sugar can be an extremely daunting reality for a child.

That’s why, as parents, it is crucial to deal with your child’s disease with honesty and patience. That’s why it is  important to listen to your child’s concerns and respond to those concerns in a straightforward fashion. And remember it is only natural that when kids are diagnosed with diabetes that they are going to have a bus load of questions. By answering those questions honestly you’re not only helping to educate them, but you’re also educating yourself.

Children diagnosed with diabetes often believe that the disease is the result of something that they have done. So, it is important for parents to make it clear (especially to younger children) that they have nothing to feel guilty about.

But at the same time, it is imperative that your child understands that his or her diabetes is not going away. And if the same seem angry or depressed, remember, it is a normal reaction.  So, encourage your child to talk openly about the disease. And because the entire family is affected by the diagnosis, do not neglect the feeling of your other children, who might feel slighted by the extra attention their sibling is receiving.

Attitude is everything and remaining positive is an important part of managing the disease. Emphasize to your child that by working together you can control the disease. Also, there are going to be bad days. So, avoid using terms like “cheating” and “being bad” if your loved one has a slip. Instead, try to reinforce an understanding about eating and exercise and their affect their blood sugar levels. If you overreact about some inappropriate food sends your son or daughter’s blood sugar levels soaring, your child might hide the truth from in the future.

Also, the best way to inspire your child is by setting an example.  It may seem extremely unfair to kids with diabetes to limit sugary treats or be expected to get regular exercise if their siblings and parents don’t have to live up to the same standards. Have a family discussion about why living a healthy lifestyle is important for everyone — not just people with diabetes. Include all family members in meal planning and other activities so your child won’t feel alone in diabetes management.