Education

Our parent education sessions are designed to empower families with knowledge, confidence, and community. Parents will learn practical strategies for supporting diabetes management at home, nutritional information, diabetes technology advances, and so much more!

 

One hour in-person and virtual workshops each month

 

Parent sessions will feature speakers or facilitators of any of the following: endocrinologists, diabetic educators, dietitians, psychologists, experienced parents, and more!

 

Being newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes can feel overwhelming for both children and their families, but it’s important to know that you are not alone—and that life with diabetes can be full, active, and joyful. The first few weeks are a time of learning: understanding how insulin works, checking blood glucose, counting carbohydrates, and noticing how food, exercise, and emotions affect blood sugar levels. Over time, these routines become more familiar, and confidence grows. Support from diabetes educators, healthcare providers, and other families living with diabetes can make a big difference. Camps, community programs, and online groups offer safe spaces to share experiences and build independence. Remember, diabetes doesn’t define you or your child—it’s just one part of your story, and with knowledge, teamwork, and support, managing it becomes a normal part of everyday life.

There are many different support groups within the New England area and beyond. Please see a list of some of the most common ones below.

 

Breakthrough T1D Greater CT and Western MA Chapter: Greater Connecticut and Western Massachusetts Chapter – Breakthrough T1D

Breakthrough T1D Greater New England: Greater New England Breakthrough T1D Diabetes Chapter Support

Breakthrough T1D Upstate NY: Upstate New York Chapter – Type 1 Diabetes Community Support

On FaceBook: T1DN: New England

Beyond Type 1 Community: Type 1 Community | Beyond Type 1

MA Support Groups: Diabetes Support Groups States H – M – Defeat Diabetes Foundation

Brave Buddies Support Group: BraveBuddies@groups.io | Home

Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island Diabetes Support Group
111 Brewster St.
Sayles Conference Room
Pawtucket, RI, 02860
(401) 729-2198

Kent Hospital Diabetes Support Group
455 Toll Gate Road
WARWICK, RI 02887
Group Contact: Diabetes Support Staff
Phone: 401-736-4678

School Nurses are essential in the well-being of children with type 1 diabetes. They play an active role in creating a safe learning environment for children. School Nurses must collaborate with educators, administrators, support staff, endocrinologists, diabetic nurse educators, students, and their parents/guardians. It is important that school nurses feel educated about type 1 diabetes so they can be the liaison between the health and educational worlds. Here are a few links to information that may be helpful.