Easter can be a minefield for children with type 1 diabetes and their parents.

Between the chocolate, hot cross buns, egg hunts, parades and visits from the Easter bunny it can be a stressful couple of days.

Diabetes Australia (Diabetes Queensland at the time) spoke to some parents of children with type 1 diabetes to see how they negotiate their way through the Easter period.

“I let Madeleine have chocolate eggs but the Easter bunny brings a range of things here. There are so many cool Easter gifts now that aren’t chocolate that you can do a mix of gifts.” Angela Thompson, mother of Madeleine (aged six), Hervey Bay

“Carb counts are a definite. So frustrating when the kids end up joining in someone else’s egg hunt and you have all these random different sized eggs you have no idea about.” Lindsey Buckle Clewett, mother of Phoebe (aged five), Sunshine Coast

“We do some eggs but combine it with a book, PJs, knick knacks. We learnt our lesson the year Montana was diagnosed as it was just before Easter. We knew very little about foods affecting her BGLs so everyone in the family tried to do the right thing and gave her sugar free chocolate. We very quickly learnt that it wasn’t the best idea because of the laxative effect the sugar free eggs can have if consumed in large amounts.” Michelle Tieppo, mother of Montana (aged seven) and Raphaella (aged five), Brisbane

“All in moderation. I just keep a watchful eye. Chocolate doesn’t seem to raise BGLs quickly like lollies, so keeping on top of it is ok! I also give PJs and books as a filler too but maybe that’s coz I like to spoil my kids.” Jo (mum with type 1 diabetes), mother of Ahnika (aged two), Sunshine Coast.