Starting preschool is an exciting milestone for both you and your child. It provides opportunities for learning, social development and growing independence. For parents of a child with diabetes, it can also be a time of mixed emotions and concerns about safety and diabetes management. The good news is that with planning, communication and support, most children with diabetes can participate fully in preschool activities alongside their peers.
Provide your preschool with options for education on diabetes. This might include a school visit from your local diabetes educator.
Building a partnership with your preschool
Before your child starts preschool, arrange a meeting with the director and key educators to discuss your child’s diabetes management needs. Sharing information early can help staff feel more confident and ensure appropriate supports are in place.
Consider providing:
- Your child’s Diabetes Medical Management Plan
- Hypoglycaemia (low glucose) and hyperglycaemia action plans
- Emergency contact details
- Information about your child’s insulin regimen, insulin pump or continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device.
Some families choose to have their child wear medical identification or carry other forms of diabetes identification.
Providing education and training opportunities for staff can help build confidence and preparedness, hyperglycaemia and management depending on the diabetes management plan.
Practical Diabetes for Childcare Educators – Diabetes Qualified
Hypoglycaemia
It is important that preschool staff know how to recognise and treat hypoglycaemia promptly.
Make sure hypo treatment supplies are readily available and regularly checked to ensure they are within expiry dates. Consider placing supplies in easily accessible locations known to all staff members.
Important points to make:
- If your child is experiencing symptoms of hypoglycaemia, treatment should not be delayed.
- Your child should never be sent alone to find help or treatment.
- An adult should remain with your child until they have recovered and are feeling well.
Assisting with diabetes
With education, pre-school staff will assist with diabetes related tasks. Please discuss this with the director of the preschool.
Remember
Starting preschool can feel daunting, but with good communication and preparation, children with diabetes can thrive in early childhood education settings. Building a strong partnership between families, healthcare professionals and preschool staff helps create a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where your child can learn, play and grow with confidence.
Updated: August 2026