The classroom buzzes with excitement on a bright Monday morning. Tee, a cheerful 6-year-old Russian boy with neat brown hair and a brave smile, sits at his desk holding a small diabetes kit. His diverse classmates, including kids with different skin tones and accents from around the world, chatter happily as Ms. Jen, the kind American teacher with glasses and a warm ponytail, claps her hands to start circle time. Ms. S, the friendly American-Spanish paraprofessional with curly dark hair and a colorful scarf, sits nearby with her helpful smile, ready to assist.
"Good morning, everyone! Today, our friend Tee has something special to share with us about his health. Tee, can you tell us what happened to you recently? "Hi, class! A few weeks ago, the doctor said I have diabetes. It means my body needs a little extra help because of sugar in food, like when we check if our toys have batteries!"
"See this? It's my blood sugar monitor. Ms. S helps me use it a few times a day, like after lunch and snack time. We check my monitor that is connected to my pump. doesn't hurt, it tells us if I need to eat something sweet or wait a bit." "Yes, Tee is so brave! I check his levels during school, and we make it fun with high-fives, this is just like needing glasses or medicine, it helps Tee feel strong!"
"Tee, does it hurt? Can we see?" asks a classmate. "It tingles a little, but I'm used to it now. Watch Ms. S will help me show you safely. When my level is good, I can run and play at recess like everyone else! Diabetes means I eat healthy foods and check sometimes, but I'm still me." "Cool! Can I help next time?" says Tee's best friend?
"What a great questions! Being friends means cheering Tee on and reminding him if he forgets his kit. Let's practice saying, 'Want to check your super sugar power?'" "Thank you, friends! Now I feel happy because you understand. Diabetes is part of my adventure, like learning English or drawing dinosaurs. Together, we can do anything!" The class repeats the cheer, hugging Tee gently.
"Tee, you were an amazing teacher today. Class, let's give him a big clap to Tee for sharing his story so we can all be the best helpers ever!" The kindergarteners cheer, their voices a joyful. Tee beams, feeling strong and loved. From that day, the class watches out for each other, turning a challenge into a team win.
