Pediatric Diabetes Support Groups, Classes, and Camps

Support groups

Diabetes education and support group for children and their parents

  • Meeting days and time: The first, third, and fifth (when applicable) Wednesday of the month, from 12:00 to 1:00 pm
  • Meeting location: Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, Family Center, Level 6
  • Registration: For more information and to register, please contact the Pediatric Endocrinology department.

Diabetes camps

Children with chronic medical conditions often feel different, isolated, and sometimes overwhelmed by diabetes care. Diabetes camps provide a unique experience to interact with children with similar challenges. Seeing the benefit of the group setting and the power of positive peer interaction is amazing. With a healthy mix of play, relaxation, and education, children often make great strides during these experiences.

  • Winter Weekend: In cooperation with the American Diabetes Association's Vermont affiliate, we provide medical staffing for Winter Weekend for teens with diabetes. Please contact Ann Christiano for more information about Winter Weekend.
  • Camp Carefree: We provide medical staffing at Camp Carefree, a wonderful summer experience for children with diabetes.
  • Barton Center camps: The Barton Diabetes Center in Massachusetts offers several diabetes camp sessions during the summer and weekend camp experiences throughout the year.

Diabetes classes

There is a sea of information about diabetes. Right now, you may feel like you are swimming against the tide. This class will help you surf the information. It will also help you gain confidence in managing diabetes at home.

  • Class days and times: Every other month, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm (please check in by 8:45 am)
  • Ages: Classes are taught for ages 12 and above, and children should be accompanied by an adult.
  • Billing: Insurance will be billed, so please check to see if you need a referral.
  • Registration: For more information or to register, please contact the Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Department.

Topics covered

  • Diabetes overview
  • Carbohydrate counting
    • Nutrition to control blood glucose levels
    • Label reading (fiber, sugar, alcohols)
    • Practice, Practice, Practice
  • Monitoring blood glucose
    • Highs and lows
    • Pattern management
    • Insulin adjustment
  • Sick days
    • Ketone monitoring
    • Keeping out of the hospital
  • Ongoing care issues