Pre-K & Kindergarten Readiness Kit

Complete preparation guide for ensuring your preschooler's successful transition to school with Type 1 diabetes

504 Plan Development for Preschoolers

Essential Accommodations for Pre-K/Kindergarten

Diabetes Management

  • Blood sugar checks as needed, anywhere, anytime
  • Immediate treatment of low blood sugar
  • Access to diabetes supplies and snacks
  • Trained staff member always available
  • Private space for diabetes care when requested
  • Permission to use bathroom and drink water freely

Academic Support

  • Extra time for activities if affected by blood sugar
  • Makeup opportunities for missed instruction
  • Participation in all school activities and field trips
  • Snacks during class time as needed
  • Modified physical education if necessary
  • Communication system with parents

Sample 504 Plan Language

Accommodation: "[Child's name] will be permitted to check blood glucose and treat hypoglycemia in the classroom or any other location at school."

Accommodation: "School staff will be trained to recognize symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia and respond appropriately."

Accommodation: "[Child's name] will have immediate access to diabetes supplies and will not be restricted from carrying supplies."

School Staff Training Program

Comprehensive Training Curriculum

Module 1: T1D Basics for Educators (30 minutes)

  • Type 1 vs Type 2 diabetes differences
  • Why children develop T1D (autoimmune condition)
  • Role of insulin and blood sugar management
  • Normal growth and development expectations
  • Dispelling common myths and misconceptions

Module 2: Daily School Management (45 minutes)

  • Blood glucose checking procedures and timing
  • Recognizing high and low blood sugar symptoms
  • Snack and meal timing importance
  • Physical activity considerations and modifications
  • Communication with parents and healthcare team
  • Documentation and record keeping

Module 3: Emergency Response (30 minutes)

  • Hypoglycemia treatment step-by-step
  • When to call parents vs emergency services
  • Hyperglycemia recognition and response
  • Glucagon administration (if applicable)
  • Emergency contact procedures

Age-Appropriate Teaching Strategies

  • Visual aids: Picture cards showing symptoms and treatments
  • Role playing: Practice scenarios with dolls or stuffed animals
  • Simple language: "Sugar too low" vs "hypoglycemia"
  • Positive reinforcement: Praise cooperation with diabetes care
  • Routine integration: Make diabetes care part of normal classroom routine
Emergency Procedures for Young Children

Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Early Warning Signs:

  • Sudden behavior changes or irritability
  • Shakiness, sweating, or pale skin
  • Hunger complaints or asking for food
  • Difficulty concentrating or following directions
  • Fatigue or wanting to lie down

Treatment Protocol:

  1. Stay calm and reassure the child
  2. Check blood sugar if child cooperates
  3. Give 15g fast-acting carbs (glucose tablets/juice)
  4. Stay with child and monitor symptoms
  5. Recheck blood sugar in 15 minutes
  6. Call parents immediately
  7. Give protein snack once blood sugar normalizes

Severe Symptoms - Call 911:

  • Loss of consciousness or unresponsive
  • Seizure or convulsions
  • Unable to swallow safely

High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)

Symptoms to Monitor:

  • Increased thirst and frequent urination
  • Fatigue or unusual sleepiness
  • Nausea or stomach complaints
  • Fruity breath odor
  • Difficulty concentrating

Response Steps:

  1. Check blood sugar if possible
  2. Encourage water intake
  3. Allow frequent bathroom breaks
  4. Contact parents immediately
  5. Monitor for worsening symptoms
  6. Do not give insulin unless specifically trained

Call 911 if:

  • Vomiting or unable to keep fluids down
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Loss of consciousness

Classroom Emergency Kit Contents

Testing Supplies:
  • Blood glucose meter
  • Test strips (check expiration monthly)
  • Lancets and lancing device
  • Alcohol wipes or hand sanitizer
  • Tissues and disposal container
Low Blood Sugar Treatment:
  • Glucose tablets (age-appropriate)
  • Glucose gel tubes
  • 4 oz juice boxes
  • Crackers or granola bars
  • Individual applesauce cups
Emergency Information:
  • Emergency action plan (laminated)
  • Parent/guardian contact numbers
  • Healthcare provider information
  • Glucagon kit (if prescribed)
  • Blood sugar log sheets
Classroom Integration Strategies

Making Diabetes Care Part of the Routine

Daily Schedule Integration

  • Morning arrival: Quick blood sugar check during backpack time
  • Snack time: Include diabetes-friendly options for all children
  • Before lunch: Blood sugar check during hand washing
  • After recess: Check if child seems tired or different
  • Before dismissal: End-of-day blood sugar check

Peer Education and Inclusion

  • Simple explanations: "Sometimes [name] needs to check their sugar"
  • Helper roles: Classmates can help carry supplies or get water
  • Normalize equipment: Show glucose meter like any other tool
  • Celebrate differences: Everyone has things that make them special
  • Answer questions: Age-appropriate responses to curiosity

Creating a Supportive Environment

  • Designated diabetes station: Special area with supplies and comfortable seating
  • Visual cues: Picture schedule showing when to check blood sugar
  • Positive language: "Time for your sugar check" vs "You have to test"
  • Flexibility: Adjust activities based on blood sugar levels
  • Communication tools: Simple charts to track daily management
School Readiness Checklist

3 Months Before School Starts

  • Contact school to schedule 504 meeting
  • Obtain medical documentation from endocrinologist
  • Draft diabetes management plan (DMMP)
  • Research school policies and procedures
  • Identify key school personnel to train
  • Prepare training materials and supplies
  • Schedule school visit and classroom tour
  • Connect with other T1D families at school

1 Month Before School Starts

  • Finalize and sign 504 plan
  • Complete staff training sessions
  • Stock classroom emergency supplies
  • Practice school routine at home
  • Meet teacher and establish communication plan

First Week of School

  • Daily check-ins with teacher
  • Review blood sugar logs and patterns
  • Assess child's comfort level and adjustment
  • Address any concerns or needed adjustments

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