Please provide some do's and don'ts on managing a child with diabetes.

Ignore: Do eat 15 gms of carbs at bedtime. Do not forget to check blood sugar before bedtime.

Ignore: Your child should eat small, balanced meals 5-6 x day.

Ignore: Do: help your child take control of the disease Don't: lose you patience.

Ignore: Do keep a log of blood sugar readings and don't adjust medications without talking to your doctor.

Ignore: Managing diabetes in teenagers is difficult. Encourage & reward your teen for taking an active role.

Ignore: If your child is acting strange or sick, check their blood sugar.

Ignore: Do teach your child about eating, insulin, and checking sugars, but don't make them feel sickly.

Ignore: Be sure to always have glucose tablets readily accessible - at school, in car, etc.

Ignore: Check blood glucose 4 times daily. Take insulin as prescribed. Keep all appointments. Optimize diet.

Ignore: Don't be over-protective of a diabetic child. Let the kid play and live life like normal kids.

Ignore: Don't Stress! Do follow diet and insulin schedule! Do encourage your child to feel "normal" ! :).

Ignore: Make sure you see a diabetes educator about your child. Any ongoing concerns call the educator.

Always: Always take active part in your child's diabetes management tasks regardless of his / her age .

Ignore: Don't freak out when your child's blood sugar is bad! Remain calm and focus on what to do next!