Back to Start HereDays 2-3 Action Plan
Days 2-3: Building Understanding & Confidence
Now that you've survived the first 24 hours, it's time to build deeper understanding and establish sustainable routines. Focus on learning, planning, and building your support network.
You made it through day one! That was the hardest part. Now we focus on building sustainable habits and deeper understanding for long-term success.
Day 2: Deepening Your Knowledge
Focus on understanding the 'why' behind diabetes management
Learning Priorities
Carbohydrate Counting Basics
- Learn to read nutrition labels
- Practice with familiar foods first
- Use measuring cups and food scales
- Download carb counting apps
Blood Sugar Patterns
- Understand target ranges by age
- Learn about dawn phenomenon
- Recognize exercise effects
- Track patterns in a logbook
Practical Skills Development
Injection Technique
- Practice proper injection sites
- Learn site rotation patterns
- Master pen vs. syringe techniques
- Time injections with meals
Testing & Monitoring
- Establish testing schedule
- Learn alternate site testing
- Understand meter accuracy
- Set up data tracking system
Day 3: Building Your Support System
Expand your network and prepare for returning to normal activities
Family & Friends Education
Immediate Family
- Teach basic low blood sugar treatment
- Show how to use glucagon
- Practice blood sugar testing
- Share emergency contact info
Extended Network
- Educate grandparents and relatives
- Inform close family friends
- Update regular babysitters
- Connect with T1D families
School & Childcare Preparation
Initial Communication
- Schedule meeting with school nurse
- Contact your child's teacher
- Inform principal/administrator
- Request 504 plan information
Documentation Prep
- Gather medical documentation
- Prepare emergency action plan
- List required accommodations
- Plan supply storage at school
Establishing Daily Routines
Create sustainable habits that will serve you long-term
Meal Planning
- Plan consistent meal times - Regular schedule helps with insulin timing
- Stock diabetes-friendly foods - Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables
- Prepare low-carb snacks - Have options ready for between meals
- Create emergency food kit - Fast-acting carbs for low blood sugar
Testing Schedule
- Before each meal - Check blood sugar 15-30 minutes before eating
- 2 hours after meals - Monitor post-meal blood sugar response
- Before bedtime - Ensure safe overnight blood sugar levels
- When feeling unwell - Check more frequently during illness
Insurance & Financial Planning
Understand your coverage and plan for ongoing costs
Insurance Review
- Review prescription drug coverage
- Understand durable medical equipment benefits
- Check specialist visit coverage
- Research prior authorization requirements
Cost Management
- Research manufacturer discount programs
- Look into pharmacy assistance programs
- Consider mail-order pharmacy options
- Plan for ongoing supply costs
Emotional Processing & Mental Health
It's normal to feel overwhelmed. Take care of your mental health too.
Remember: Grief, anger, fear, and overwhelm are all normal reactions to a T1D diagnosis. Allow yourself and your family time to process these emotions.
For Parents
- • Allow yourself to grieve
- • Connect with other T1D parents
- • Consider counseling support
- • Practice self-care
For Children
- • Validate their feelings
- • Use age-appropriate explanations
- • Maintain normal routines
- • Connect with T1D kids
For Siblings
- • Include them in age-appropriate ways
- • Ensure they get individual attention
- • Answer their questions honestly
- • Watch for behavioral changes
Ready for Week 1 Planning?
You've built a solid foundation over the first 3 days. Now let's plan for sustainable long-term management and returning to your normal activities.