Summer is all about fun, freedom, and time outdoors — but for children with Type 1 diabetes, the season also brings extra health challenges. Shifting routines, summer camps, new caregivers, and active days in the sun can all affect blood sugar levels. The risk of complications like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) increases if proper precautions aren’t taken.
Dr. Jennifer Sherr, a pediatric endocrinologist — and someone who lives with Type 1 diabetes — shares key advice for parents to help their kids enjoy a healthy and safe summer.
Why Summer Can Be Risky for Kids With Diabetes
Summer means more physical activity, unpredictable schedules, and different caregivers, especially with camps or family vacations. These changes can disrupt insulin routines and make managing blood sugar more complicated.
Dr. Sherr explains that activities like swimming and outdoor play can lead to sweating, which may cause insulin pump sets to come loose or kink — sometimes without setting off an alert. At the same time, kids might eat foods with unknown carb content at parties, picnics, or while traveling. These factors increase the risk of prolonged high blood sugar, which can lead to DKA, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
What Can Go Wrong With New Schedules
Even the best-planned vacations or camp schedules can lead to unintentional oversights. With new faces supervising — camp counselors, relatives, or other parents — mistakes can happen. Mealtimes shift, insulin dosing can get off track, and sometimes no one notices when a child needs a break to check blood sugar or take insulin.
Overnight camps can be especially tricky because parents aren’t nearby to correct problems. That’s why it’s so important to have a clear, easy-to-follow diabetes care plan in place.
Talking to New Caregivers
Before summer starts, take time to talk to any new caregivers — whether it’s a camp counselor or an aunt — about your child’s diabetes plan.
Make sure they know:
- What to do in case of high or low blood sugar
- How to administer insulin
- Warning signs of DKA
- When to check sugar or ketone levels
- Emergency contacts and when to call for help
Dr. Sherr stresses the importance of preparation. A simple checklist can go a long way in preventing issues before they start.
DKA Warning Signs Every Caregiver Should Know
One of the most dangerous complications for children with diabetes is DKA. Symptoms can look like a basic stomach bug:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Tiredness
But in a child with Type 1 diabetes, these signs may signal elevated ketones — a serious red flag.
Dr. Sherr’s advice is simple: When in doubt, test for ketones. Even a mild illness or stress can trigger them, and early detection can prevent hospitalization.
Must-Have Supplies for Summer
Every child with diabetes should carry a well-stocked kit that includes:
- Backup insulin
- Glucose monitoring tools
- Ketone testing strips (make sure they’re not expired)
- Snacks for managing low sugar
- Clear instructions for caregivers
Whether going to camp, visiting grandparents, or traveling, preparation is key.
One Final Message to Parents
Dr. Sherr offers one heartfelt reminder:
Even one case of DKA is too many — and it’s preventable.
Make sure everyone around your child knows the warning signs, has access to supplies, and understands what to do. With the right planning, kids with diabetes can enjoy every part of summer just like anyone else — safely, confidently, and joyfully.
Let’s make this summer one to remember — for all the right reasons.