First 30 Days with Type 1 Diabetes

You're Not Alone

Those first 30 days can feel overwhelming, but you've got this. This guide will walk you through each day with practical steps, downloadable tools, and the knowledge that thousands of families have been exactly where you are right now. Take it one day at a time.

Emergency Information

Call 911 if: Your child is unconscious, having seizures, or you can't wake them up

Call your doctor if: Blood sugar is over 400 mg/dL or under 70 mg/dL and not responding to treatment

Always carry: Glucagon emergency kit, fast-acting sugar, medical ID

1-3

The Hospital Days

What to do in the hospital:

Ask questions - no question is too basic

Take notes or record important instructions

Get contact info for your diabetes team

Ask about diabetes education classes

Request a social worker if you need help with insurance

Hospital Checklist

Print this checklist to take with you to the hospital

Download Hospital Checklist

4-7

Coming Home

First week at home:

Set up a blood sugar testing station

Create emergency contact list

Stock up on supplies (test strips, lancets, insulin)

Set phone alarms for blood sugar checks

Start logging blood sugars and insulin doses

Essential Templates

Download these templates to help with school and daily management

Blood Sugar Log Letter to Teacher Emergency Contacts

8-14

Getting Into Routine

Second week goals:

Meet with school nurse and teachers

Create 504 plan for school

Learn to count carbohydrates

Practice giving insulin injections

Join online support groups

School Resources

Essential documents for school accommodations

504 Plan Template School Nurse Letter Carb Counting Guide

15-21

Building Confidence

Third week focus:

Attend diabetes education classes

Learn about sick day management

Practice emergency procedures

Connect with other T1D families

Start thinking about technology options

22-30

Finding Your New Normal

Final week goals:

Feel confident with daily management

Have emergency supplies in multiple locations

Know when to call your diabetes team

Feel comfortable explaining T1D to others

Celebrate making it through the first month!

Additional Resources

More tools to help you through this journey

Sick Day Management Plan Travel Checklist Insurance Navigation Guide