Managing the Holidays with Kids and Diabetes

Focus on the Positive

Stay away from sweets, cakes, and also do not run around a lot and make your glucose numbers crash as a low because you were having too much fun.  And by the way, I know this is the house with your favorite cousins so enjoy yourself, but sit still.

Don’t do that. Focus on being positive!

Do not make the holidays a list of things ‘not to do’. What kid wants that over their head during this festive time of the year? Be quick to recognize (or bring your own) ‘free foods’ to have as snacks for your child. These can go a long way between the real sweet delights. And do not be afraid to make it about choices when it comes to the pumpkin pie.

You also want to set the stage for your child’s future and make them aware of how to handle their condition and these types of events. Ask your child questions when it comes to all things snacks. “Do you think you can have all of this?” Or ask, “Might some of it now be acceptable? And maybe this or something even better a little later?”  Ask the question, “What do you think?”

Hear their answer. Always remember that kids wait all year for these special holidays …allow them to enjoy them.

Let’s Talk About Foods—It’s About Balance

Listen, it’s the holidays and food is a huge part. Have a good deal of non-starchy vegetables available. They are low in carbs and do not be afraid to substitute zucchini, celery, cucumbers, and celery as ‘nosh’ type snacks. (Here are some Holiday Superfoods Worth Celebrating).

It’s no secret how much carbs play a role in the holidays — much more than the ‘normal-run-of-the-mill’ days. However, the more we know about the impact of many foods, the more we can counteract the effects. Break up the plate with a variety of foods. For example, take quarter of the amount of stuffing and make sure there’s a good portion of vegetables included. If your child sees everyone’s plate full and there’s looks like the morning ration of the rest, you’ll be heading for trouble.

Replace, Not Remove

There is nothing to say that the almost 2 months in and around holidays cannot have some sort of a routine. Do not make your child go without because they are ‘banking’ to eat more after they skip a meal. One cannot eat more because they skip meals, this is a no-no. Have full and balanced meals and when it comes time for the ‘holiday meals’ they really will not be all that different than everyday meals.

Do not be afraid to call ahead and ask the dinner menu so you can prepare your child and always (and I mean ALWAYS) ask if you can bring a dish to share. Have your kids help you make it. Same thing with desserts. There’s an army full of recipes you can use to make healthier choice desserts and snacks. Remember the rule; R-N-R. Replace, Not Remove. (Check out these Diabetes-Friendly Thanksgiving Recipes).

Be the Example

Be smart with your holidays and your kids. Don’t take four helpings of stuffing and then give your child a carrot. On and in so many different occasions, they will exemplify you. Make the choices you would want them to make. And remember above everything else that kids are kids. They will make mistakes but nothing so large that it cannot be rectified if needed.

I cannot tell you how many times I have seen parents of children with diabetes talk to their children as if the cookie they just ate is the worst thing since war. It’s not. If you make it taboo…it becomes taboo. Talk with them, not at them.

No one knows your child better than you do and with a few minor adjustments the holidays can remain just that, the holidays. We were able to enjoy so much because we bought diabetes along for the ride, but diabetes did not drive the car. You can do the same.

I am a diabetesdad.