My two and a half year old daughter was diagnosed with diabetes on January 1, 2006. I was giving her syringe injections on her arms and legs. When I would go to administer the injection in her legs, she would tremble so much and either start crying or running away. I’ve now chosen to inject her arms only. She does not allow me to do her abdomen or buttocks, I believe, because of fear. Is there anything I can do to make the process a little smoother for her (and myself). I feel terrible when it comes time to inject. When it comes to her fingers she’s fine. Occasionally, I get the “I don’t wanna check my finger” but,we manage. Any help or advice you can offer would be great. I’m a young single mother and it’s really taken a toll on all of us.

How frustrating for you both! Here are some ideas. Your daughter may need to work through her feelings. One of the best ways for young children is through play. Identify one of her dolls as having diabetes. Maybe even make an ID tag for the doll. Allow your daughter to practice giving injections (using a syringe with no needle) to the doll. Have plenty of band aids nearby. Young children often want to cover up injection sites.

Another thought is to pick parts of the injection in which she can participate: choosing the site, cleaning the site with alcohol, pushing in the plunger after you have given the injection, etc. Encourage her to participate, but accept that she will not always want to.

Another thought is to consider how you yourself approach the injection time. Are you hassled, frightened, sad, frustrated, or positive, encouraging and loving Your daughter will pick up on these feelings. Be as “matter of fact” as possible, maybe saying “It’s time for your insulin; insulin will keep you healthy!”

And, finally, shower your daughter with affection after each injection, then move on to something else.

BS