Why Diabetes Education Makes Insulin Pumps Work Better for Kids
- Rebecca Guldberg
- Sep 8
- 3 min read
If your child has type 1 diabetes, you’ve probably heard about insulin pumps—tiny devices that deliver insulin throughout the day so kids don’t have to take multiple daily injections. For many families, switching to a pump feels like a big step toward freedom and flexibility.
But here’s something you may not know: the real magic of insulin pumps isn’t just in the device—it’s in how well families are taught to use them.
A new study of children using insulin pumps found that when kids and their parents got tailored, ongoing diabetes education, their blood sugar numbers improved dramatically within just a few months. Read the full article HERE
What the Study Found
Researchers followed a group of children who switched from injections to pumps. Alongside the pump, families received extra education designed just for them—covering things like carb counting, troubleshooting pump alarms, and how to respond to highs and lows.
Here’s what happened after six months:
A1c levels dropped from an average of 8.8% down to 7.2% (that’s a big win for long-term health).
Kids who really held onto the training also spent more time in their target blood sugar range.
Families felt more confident managing daily challenges—like set changes, sick days, and late-night blood sugar swings.
Why Education Matters
Think of an insulin pump like a smartphone. You can hand it to someone, but without knowing how to use the apps and settings, it won’t do much good. Pumps work the same way—kids and parents need to know how to:
Match insulin to carbs at mealtimes
Rotate infusion sites to avoid skin issues
Read CGM (continuous glucose monitor) trends
Fix problems when things go wrong (like kinked tubing or stubborn highs)
The study showed that when families really understood these skills—and got refreshers along the way—the technology delivered the best results.
What This Means for Parents
If your child is starting (or already using) an insulin pump, here are some takeaways:
Ask for more training if you need it. Don’t be shy—pumps are complex, and it’s normal to need reminders.
Practice together. Younger kids may need you to handle most of the steps, while teens may want more independence. The key is learning side by side.
Expect a learning curve. Early on, you may see site issues, high blood sugars, or even scary lows. These tend to get better as you and your child become more comfortable.
Stay connected. Keep in touch with your diabetes team. A quick check-in can help troubleshoot small problems before they become big ones.
The Big Picture
This research confirms what many parents already know: technology helps, but education is what empowers families. An insulin pump paired with strong, ongoing training can lower A1c, boost confidence, and make life with type 1 diabetes just a little bit easier.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember—you’re not alone. Every parent in this study faced challenges at first, but with the right support, things improved. That’s a hopeful message worth holding onto.
About Direct Diabetes
Direct Diabetes has been helping people with diabetes for nearly 30 years by mailing the supplies they need directly to their home, and helping them avoid the hassle of having to go to a pharmacy. From Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) to insulin pumps and testing supplies, our goal is to take the stress out of managing diabetes so patients can focus on living healthier, fuller lives. We work directly with doctors and insurance companies to make the process simple and affordable—and we’re proud to be a trusted partner in the diabetes community.
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