Our son was recently diagnosed (1 week ago) with Type 1 diabetes. He is 2 years old. We have been told about many different ways of administering his Insulin (2 times/day). Obviously the syringes are pretty scary to him (and his parents). One of the more promising devices that we’ve read about is the “Beeper” type that is worn on a belt with a small needle inserted under the skin surface so the insulin is administered as needed. Is he too young to have something like this or can you recommend something more suitable?

I believe you are referring to the insulin pump. We have discussed the pros and cons of this device extensively on this website. I suggest you read these sections to learn more details.

Although an insulin pump can be worn by a 2 year old, many two year olds would just pull it out. Most young children get used to the injections very quickly. The short needles really don’t hurt that much. The children are usually more upset about just being held down. They will usually also get more upset if the parents convey that they are upset. I suggest if possible, you try to follow up the injections with something fun like reading him a short story. When you give the shots, you should also try to hide how upset you understandably are (if this is possible), and tell him calmly that he has to take the shots because you love him and don’t want to get sick. Even if he doesn’t understand what you are saying now, he will react to your tone and will understand in the future.

After you get used to the injections and learn more about what affects your son’s blood sugars, you can decide better whether or not the insulin pump might be a choice for your son at this time or in the future. Very often, after the initial diagnosis, insulin requirements go down, and blood sugar control is quite easy on injections. A catheter has to be inserted with the insulin pump every two to three days, so you are not completely getting away with injections.

TGL