How do I test myself? Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you test yourself:

• Take it slowly. First, watch your mom and dad carefully when they do it.
  
  
• Tell your diabetes professional that you want to test yourself. He or she can show you the basics.
  
  
• Take it one step at a time. For example, first learn to open the lancet without touching the sharp tip.
  
  
• Be patient! There is no hurry. If you rush too much now, you might feel like giving up later.

If you are not quite ready to test yourself, you can still get more involved with your diabetes. All kids can benefit from keeping good records for their doctor. Here's how:

Every time you have a blood test, write down in a notebook the time and date, the reading you got when you tested, how you felt, and how much insulin you took. Then write down how much you ate afterward or how much you exercised.