Posted: November 13, 2025
The holidays are quickly approaching! This time of year brings excitement and lots of festivities in the child care setting. But if you have diabetes (or prediabetes) or are caring for children with diabetes, this season can cause uncertainty and even stress as it brings about even more challenges than usual to manage this chronic disease.
National Diabetes Awareness month graphic
Take heart! Facing this season with confidence and peace while managing diabetes is possible.
If you would like more support to learn to not just "get by" with diabetes management—but to stay hopeful and thrive during this holiday season—check out these Better Kid Care On Demand courses focused on diabetes that Better Kid Care is highlighting during National Diabetes Awareness month:
- "Diabetes Awareness and Management for Young Children" Proper care and management of Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is critical for healthy growth and development and prevention of complications later in life. This course informs caregivers of young children about the signs and symptoms and the essentials of caring for a young child with T1D.
- "Peer Allies for Children and Youth with Diabetes" Type 1 diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects every aspect of life. Managing Type 1 diabetes is physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging for children and youth. Adults in group settings can provide needed support by teaching children and youth without Type 1 diabetes to become peer allies.
- "Supporting Youth with Type 1 Diabetes in Transitioning to Self-Management" As children grow and mature, they are gradually able to learn how to manage their diabetes for themselves. This course examines realistic expectations for the transfer of responsibility for care and how educators and others can support children and youth as they grow more independent in managing their diabetes.
Finally, if you are caregiver with diabetes or prediabetes, check out the "Dining with Diabetes" classes through Penn State Extension. There is both an online self-paced course and an in-person workshop option available.
Check these out to help give you the resources and support you need to not just survive, but thrive this holiday season!
