What child doesn't like to play at a friend's house? His toys always seem more interesting, his mom serves different snacks, and your child feels as if he's on some kind of big-kid adventure. After diagnosis, parents struggle with the concept of playgroups and play dates, and many opt, at the start, simply to have them all at their home or insist on hanging around at them when they are elsewhere. The first option is not a good long-term one. Even the smallest child needs to know that she can be safe outside her own home, and needs to explore social situations outside her usual parameters. The second option, particularly with tiny tots with diabetes, is not outrageous. But in time, every parent should work toward finding a way to let his child visit and play with friends all by himself.

Playgroups

If your smaller child was in a playgroup before diagnosis, keep that as part of her life right from the time you come home. Most likely, you've bonded with the parents or caregivers in this group, so they may be a great first chance for you to educate others on diabetes and what it means for your child. The first few times your child attends, even if it is a drop-off group, ask to stay behind and show the host parent exactly what you do to care for your child during that time. Encourage her to learn how to do a blood check on your child; show her exactly what is used to treat a low and discuss good snack choices.

Then consider asking everyone to your house for a special playgroup day. While the children play, do a mini-diabetes 101 program for the parents. Outline what it is and what it means to your child's day. Speak in positive terms: Help the parents feel comfortable with your child in their home. In most cases, other parents want to help you and your child live a normal life.

Play Dates

The phone rings, and it's the mother of the little boy your son recently met on the playground. They seemed nice and your children really hit it off. They want your son to come over and play (and ask if you can drop him off). While the natural instinct of the protective diabetes mom is to say no, you need to work toward a way you can just say yes.

On the phone, ask the mother if she knows your child has Type 1 diabetes. Explain that, when you arrive, you will need about ten minutes just to go over a few things, such as what your child needs to eat while there and at what time. Try to pick a time that works around shots or even blood checks, and take it from there.

When you arrive, have your child's snack schedule written down, and at least the first time, bring along a snack for your child and one for the host child. Tell the parent in no uncertain terms that your son must eat that snack at the specified time.

Just Say No

What if you just don't get a good feeling about a parent? If your instinct says no, you need to act the same way you would in any other potentially dangerous situation with your child. Offer for the other child to play at your house, but tell the other parent you just cannot send them over there. Like a house with unlocked guns or a parent who does not watch small children carefully, safety must come first.