Diabetes Camps and Conferences
After a child has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, parents and children may have a desire to connect with other families of children with diabetes. Two great opportunities to do that are diabetes camp and conferences.
Why Diabetes Camp?
Camp is an opportunity for children to let loose and spend time outdoors with friends doing activities such as swimming, hiking, and arts and crafts. However, many parents of children with type 1 diabetes wonder if their child can even attend camp because of how challenging diabetes management can be. That’s why diabetes camp was created.
Diabetes camp provides a fun, safe and diabetes-friendly environment for children with type 1 diabetes. Staffed by physicians, nurse, dietitians and trained counselors, they combine typical camp activities with diabetes education.
Camps for Kids and Families
Diabetes Camp are offered by various organizations such as Florida Diabetes camp, Diabetes Education and Camping Association (DECA), and the American Diabetes Association (ADA).They offer both summer and weekend camps. Summer camps are one-week long and divided by age group. Some have specific focuses such as cycling. Weekend camps are offered throughout the year and can be offered for the family or for the child with diabetes and a friend/sibling.
Children with Diabetes Conferences
The Children with Diabetes Friends for Life Conference meets every July in Orlando, FL and brings together children with type 1 diabetes and their families from around the world. Families have the opportunity to attend educational sessions, listen to world-renowned experts, and learn of the latest technological advances in diabetes care. In addition to getting diabetes education, children and families meet other families living with type 1 diabetes and leave having made life-long friendships.
Updated 2/17/19
Disclaimer: This document is not intended to take the place of the care and attention of your personal physician or other professional medical services. Our aim is to promote active participation in your care and treatment by providing information and education. Questions about individual health concerns or specific treatment options should be discussed with your physician.
