T1D Kidz helps young children aged 2-5 years* begin to understand and adjust to life with type 1 diabetes at an age when the diagnosis can feel confusing and overwhelming.
*Enquire with the team if your child is under 2 years old and you would like to attend.
Through gentle, play‑based activities and positive early experiences with diabetes care, the program supports children to build comfort, confidence, and acceptance.
Alongside the play-based activities for children, parents participate in a supportive and structured learning program. Each session is designed and led by an expert facilitator with lived T1D experience, to support and build confidence as families adjust to life after a T1D diagnosis.
T1D Kidz helps our very youngest feel safe, supported, and less afraid, laying the foundations for a happy, resilient start to life with T1D.
WHAT IS T1D KIDZ?
T1D Kidz is a structured, small-group program designed for young children and their parents to attend together.
Not to teach children diabetes management - but to shape the environment around them, so they can feel safe, supported, and understood as they grow.
At the same time, parents are supported to feel more confident, less overwhelmed, and clearer on what actually matters right now.
Each session is designed to support the needs of both children and parents:
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Children are supported through play, routine, and calm adult presence
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Parents take part in guided discussions, practical learning, and reflection
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There are shared moments where you come together in simple, but intentional ways
The sessions follow a consistent rhythm, so over time:
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Children begin to feel familiar and settled
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Parents feel more grounded and confident
Parents can choose how much they would like to participate.
No pressure. No rushing. Just a steady, supportive space each week.
HOW DOES T1D KIDZ WORK?
Where?
Type 1 Diabetes Family Centre
11 Limosa Close, Stirling WA 6021
When?
The program runs monthly from June to December 2026.
Each session runs for 2.5 hours, typically 10am – 12:30pm on a Friday morning.
Start date: Friday 5th June
Session Outlines
The eight sessions address both emotional and practical dimensions of early childhood diabetes care:
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Making Sense of the Diagnosis
Initial adjustment and emotional safety.
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Understanding the Child's Experience
Seeing the world through the child's eyes.
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Safety, Routines, and Predictability
Establishing daily rhythms and trust.
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Emotions, Expression, and Regulation
Supporting feelings and co-regulation
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Building Confidence and Autonomy
Encouraging independence within safety.
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Social Worlds and Other Caregivers
Navigating school, peers, and shared care.
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Looking Forward: Skills for Growing Up
Preparing for future developmental steps.
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Integration, Reflection, and Hope
Consolidating learning and meaning-making.
MEET OUR PROGRAM FACILITATOR
Dr Sharon Davies, PhD (Curtin), BEd (Early Childhood) (Hons) (Curtin) is an early childhood researcher and Senior Lecturer at Curtin University with extensive leadership experience in teacher education. Her work explores how adult approaches, language, and expectations shape young children’s wellbeing and everyday experiences, with a particular focus on how small changes in everyday interactions can make a meaningful difference for children.
In addition to her professional background, Sharon is a parent of an adult with Type 1 Diabetes and brings lived experience of supporting a child and family through diagnosis and ongoing care across the life course.
Sharon will be supported by our T1DFC Team, led by Carly, who will run the activities with the kids, so parents can take a break and focus on their experience with Sharon.
REGISTER NOW
Register today and join the first round of T1D Kidz.
Once we receive your registration, our team will get to work with reviewing your eligibility and confirming your place in the program.
To be eligible to participate your child must live in Western Australia. The program is targeted at children aged 2 to 5 years who have been diagnosed in the last 2 years. The team will be in contact for further information if required.
