Sibling and caregiver preparedness

Diabetes care works best when it doesn't rest on one person. Grandparents, babysitters, coaches, older siblings and friends' parents can all help, if they know what to do. This guide covers how to share responsibility safely. The medical steps for lows and highs come from your child's care plan.

A one-page caregiver sheet

Write a single page that anyone can follow: what a low looks like for this person, what to give and how much (from the care plan), when to call you, and when to call 911. Add where supplies and any glucagon are kept, plus your phone number and a backup contact. Keep a copy in every kit and on the fridge.

Show, don't just tell

Walk new caregivers through the kit in person. Show them how to read the CGM or meter, what the alerts sound like, and how to use glucagon if it's prescribed. Many glucagon products come with training devices or videos. Let them practice while you watch.

Sharing readings

Some CGM systems let family members follow readings and get alerts on their own phones. Check what your system offers and set it up for regular caregivers. Make sure everyone knows that a missing reading, or a phone that's lost signal, is a reason to check in person.

Siblings

Brothers and sisters can be wonderful helpers, but they're not caregivers. Give them age-appropriate roles. Young children can learn to notice when something seems wrong and to get an adult right away. Older children can learn where the low kit is and how to call 911. No sibling should be responsible for treating a low or making decisions.

Siblings sometimes feel left out when diabetes takes up a lot of attention. Some one-on-one time and letting them help in small ways can make a big difference.

Overnights and trips

For sleepovers, camps and trips, pack a labeled kit, send the caregiver sheet, and talk through the plan with the adult in charge. Diabetes camps are designed for kids with diabetes and are trained for it. They can also be a great confidence boost.