Changes Induced by Recreational and Educational Activities in Children With Diabetes

Psychosocial Outcomes of Participating in Pediatric Diabetes Camp

“…Parents identified an increase in their child's diabetes knowledge and management which is congruent with the results of the SED total as well as subscales noting positive changes in self-efficacy. Mercuri et al (2009) and Wang et al (2008) found similar benefits of camping experiences leading to improved glycemic control and improved self-management skills in children attending diabetes camps. These results are important due to the need to closely manage blood glucose levels to reduce long-term health complications of diabetes.…”

“…Mercuri et al. () and Wang et al. () found similar benefits of camping experiences leading to improved glycemic control and improved self‐management skills in children attending diabetes camps.…”

“…As such, an integrated approach to T1DM management that addresses both mental and physical management of T1DM on the part of the youths, parents, and providers is recommended. One intervention that may be particularly appropriate in this endeavor is specialty summer camps designed to work with youths on the management of their chronic health concerns (Mercuri et al., ). The present study evaluated one such intervention for T1DM youths.…”

“…Another diabetes camp study with 81 participants found improved self-efficacy and resilience among campers; this is a necessary component in achieving confidence and competence in diabetes control (Winsett, Stender, Gower, & Burghen, 2010). Recreational activities, such as overnight camping experiences, are beneficial in improving knowledge and diabetes self-management skills leading to positive changes in health behavior in children with diabetes (Mercuri et al, 2009). Littlefield et al (1992) demonstrated the best predictor of metabolic control in adolescents with T1DM was the level of self-efficacy and confidence in their diabetes management.…”

Benefits of participation in a summer camp to self-care for children and adolescents with diabetes: the perception of mothers

“…In a study performed in Argentina, it was possible to involve children/adolescents and their families in a summer camp to consolidate and strengthen the learning process on diabetes. 14 In the present study, mothers reported that their children's willingness to teach was so great that they expressed their desire to be young leaders b .…”