When I was looking for a book to share with my young daughter after her Dad suffered an insulin reaction that landed him in the hospital, I was hard pressed to find anything for her. Most of the books and information I found were geared towards kids who had diabetes, not those whose parents had diabetes.

When I came across the book "Can Mom Have a Piece of my Birthday Cake?" by Rochelle Stern, I was so excited. The author was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 32. Several years after her diagnosis she began writing a children's book to help understand what diabetes was. Using activities and simple and easy to read words, Rochelle teaches children healthy eating habits, how to eliminate the fear of needle pricks and shots, and the behavior changes associated with a high or low blood sugar.

When I read this book to my children, they loved the mazes and other activities offered and had a better understanding after reading of what diabetes meant. They pointed out that Dad had a pump and they asked him what his numbers were. The book is appropriate for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics and is geared towards those children ages 4-9.

Unfortunately, the book is now out of print, and selling for Amazon for $500. Ouch. However, the author will give anyone who inquires about her book a free downloadable copy. You can go to the website at www.diabetesinthefamily.com and send an email to the author.