Pre-K & Kindergarten Readiness Kit

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

In short: Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, your child has the right to equal access to education and appropriate diabetes care in school settings.

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:

Stay calm and reassure the child
Check blood sugar if child cooperates
Give 15g fast-acting carbs (glucose tablets/juice)
Stay with child and monitor symptoms
Recheck blood sugar in 15 minutes
Call parents immediately
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:

Check blood sugar if possible
Encourage water intake
Allow frequent bathroom breaks
Contact parents immediately
Monitor for worsening symptoms
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

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