49: Thinking about the Transition to College

Sweet Talk for Parents of Kids with Type One Diabetes

This week, I talked with a mom whose T1D son recently left for college. It’s clear that mom trusts her son – and that they have a good relationship – but she’s also nervous about him being on his own. A lovely priority for her is to make sure that he knows that she’s there for him. We discuss how important it is for her to take a step back and make room for his voice. The operating question in this episode: What does he want from her?

Some highlights:

• Thinking about growing your T1D young adult’s muscle for speaking up for what they want and need from you.
• Learning how to step back little by little
• Talking with your child about how they might want to handle diabetes challenges – while also making room for yourself and your own anxiety
• Noticing when you don’t need to be involved anymore and finding a way to step back
• Learning to notice where your children are competent and thinking about the message that is conveyed to them.
• What healthy future planning looks like, particularly tuning into our concerns and balancing their wants for independence
• How to practice the communication skills that show your support and help them to learn to ask for what they need

Mentioned in this episode:

Need help getting your kid the right snacks?

That's why I've created the Sweet Talk Snack Course. It's a free mini-course to give you 6 snack sized lessons on making sure you're giving your kid the right foods to keep them nourished and their blood sugar in check. Get it at https://diabetessweettalk.com