Have you heard the news? JDRF and Beyond Type 1 have formed a partnership alliance designed to amplify each of our organization’s strengths, and to provide greater support for those impacted by type 1 diabetes. We’re so excited about this partnership and hope you are too – stay tuned for more details!

In the meantime, Halloween is upon us and we’re gearing up with tips and tricks. Check out an awesome carb count sheet and some great tips on how to ‘Halloween’ from our friends at Beyond Type 1!

• Talk About It
  Make a plan of action with your child before the festivities of Halloween kick off. How much candy will he or she get to keep? What will be done with the excess candy if it’s not kept? Make sure you talk to teachers and nurses at school about your child’s candy consumption limitations and/or planned adjustments.
• Change the Focus
  Having a child with T1D doesn’t mean he or she cannot participate in the trick-or-treating circuit, but it also doesn’t have to be the focus of the holiday. You can plan a Halloween party, focusing on costumes and games instead of collecting the candy loot! Also, try serving healthier foods that aren’t sugar-laden that still encompass the spirit of the holiday.
• Know Your Inventory
  For the candy you keep, know the carb count and label it on snack bags. This way, you and your child are still aware of the sugar content in weeks to follow if/when it’s consumed.
• Go Fun-sized
  Opt for small sizes of candy, as the less sugar will not affect blood glucose levels as dramatically. They can also be added to the quick glucose stash for when your child’s levels get low. Hard candy can be especially good for lows as fast-acting sugar. Avoid chocolate for hypoglycemia because the high-fat content slows down how fast the sugars and carbs can get into the blood stream.
• Do the “Trade-In”
  Kids can trade in candy for cash or toys. Feel like expanding on your Halloween traditions? Introduce the “Halloween Fairy” or “Great Pumpkin” who (under the cover of night) collects your candy offering and leaves his or her own gift for your child.

Thank you to Beyond Type 1 for this great information! From all of us at JDRF Western PA, we wish you a safe and happy Halloween!