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HSLIC Traveling Exhibits

Introduction

This exhibit provides a general overview of diabetes and recounts the development of the New Mexico insulin pump at the University of New Mexico's School of Medicine during the late 1970s and early 1980s. 

Activities

My Diabetes Plate – Guide to Healthy Eating

  • Activity Idea: Use the Diabetes Food Hub as a foundation for an interactive session where participants learn about the Diabetes Plate model, which helps balance portions of vegetables, proteins, and carbs for managing blood sugar.
  • Shopping List: Create a healthy shopping list for your participants, focusing on foods that align with the Diabetes Plate model. You could share the list with attendees beforehand to encourage mindful shopping.
  • Tip: Discuss various food choices for each section of the plate and encourage people to focus on whole foods and reduce processed items.

Guest Speaker on Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

  • Guest Speaker Idea: Invite a medical expert, certified diabetes educator, or someone with personal experience managing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. They can share their journey, provide expert advice on blood sugar control, and answer audience questions.
  • Tip: This could be a great time to emphasize the importance of understanding different types of diabetes and the unique management strategies for each.

Carb Counting Game

  • Interactive Learning: Share websites where attendees can practice carb counting, such as:
  • Activity Idea: Organize a fun competition or challenge where attendees test their carb counting skills and win small prizes or incentives. Use these websites to practice before the event.

Diabetic Themed Book Club

  • Book Suggestions: Choose books that deal with diabetes management, healthy living, or motivational stories of people with diabetes. Some recommendations include:
    • The Diabetes Code by Dr. Jason Fung
    • Diabetes Strong by Christel Oerum
    • The Low-Carb Diabetes Solution by Dr. David Unwin
    • Personal stories and memoirs from people living with diabetes.
  • Activity Idea: Select a book for a month and invite participants to join discussions, share insights, and ask questions.

5. Recipe Exchange/Potluck

  • Activity Idea: Organize a potluck where everyone brings a diabetes-friendly dish to share. This is a great way to exchange healthy recipes and promote cooking at home with balanced, diabetes-conscious ingredients.
  • Tip: Make sure to include a variety of recipes that are low in refined sugars, use whole grains, and have lean proteins. You can also provide nutritional info for each dish.

Host a Yoga Class

  • Activity Idea: Partner with a yoga instructor to offer a beginner-friendly yoga class that focuses on stretching, deep breathing, and relaxation—key elements in managing stress and improving overall well-being.
  • Tip: Consider a gentle or restorative yoga session to help with flexibility and stress relief, both of which are beneficial for diabetes management.

Putting it all Together:

You can host a Diabetes Wellness Day with these activities, where participants rotate through different stations or sessions, each focusing on education, relaxation, and lifestyle tips. Don’t forget to include time for socializing, sharing experiences, and building community.

Resources

These resources can help children and families better understand diabetes, manage the condition day-to-day, and find the support they need to live well with diabetes.

American Diabetes Association (ADA)

The ADA offers a variety of resources, including educational materials, advocacy, and tips for managing diabetes in children. They have specific sections for children and families.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Diabetes

The CDC offers educational resources about diabetes, including prevention tips, managing the condition, and guides for children and adolescents with diabetes.

Diabetes Educators and Support Groups

The American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) offers a directory of certified diabetes educators who can provide tailored support and guidance for families.

Pediatric Endocrine Society

Offers resources for families, including tips for managing childhood diabetes and a provider directory for specialized care.

Kids with Diabetes (Website & Forums)

A resource site with information for families managing diabetes, as well as forums for parents and children to share experiences and advice.

American Academy of Pediatrics - HealthyChildren.org

Provides general health information for children, including guidance on Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The site includes tips on managing diabetes in children and teens.