Explaining Type 1 Diabetes to Children | Captain Lantus & Friends

garyrapson
23 hours ago
2 min read

Explaining Type 1 Diabetes to Children with Captain Lantus

When a child is diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, parents often wonder: How do I explain this in a way that isn’t scary?

That’s exactly why Captain Lantus was created to turn something complicated into something kids can understand, and even feel empowered by.

Animated child in a superhero costume with a blue cape and mask, looking confident. Costume includes an autism awareness ribbon.

Captain Lantus and the Insulin Cube

In our story, Captain Lantus draws his strength from the Insulin Cube, a glowing source of power that keeps Beta Town safe.

This is just like insulin in real life. When the body no longer makes insulin, children need it from the outside either by injections or a pump. Just like the Cube, insulin helps the body use energy from food and keeps everything in balance.

How to explain to your child “Insulin is your body’s superhero helper. Without it, sugar can’t get into your cells to give you energy. That’s why you have your insulin pen or pump it’s like carrying a piece of the Insulin Cube with you.”

Mayor Bolus, Poppy, and Teamwork

Animated woman with curly hair smiles confidently, hands on hips. She wears a blue-collared suit, exuding professionalism and friendliness.

Mayor Bolus and Poppy Captain Lantus’s friends remind children that they are never alone. Diabetes can feel isolating, but support from family, friends, and teachers makes a huge difference.

Smiling cartoon character with blonde hair wearing a blue tracksuit, running joyfully on a white background.

Parent tip: Create a “support squad” at school a teacher or friend who knows about diabetes and can help if needed. Just like Mayor Bolus and Poppy.

King Carb and the Carbohydrate Conundrum

Every superhero story has a villain, and in Captain Lantus’s adventures it’s King Carb a tricky character who loves to cause chaos by sneaking sugar into meals.

Of course, in real life, carbs aren’t evil but they do need managing. Counting carbs is a way for families to know how much insulin is needed.

A cartoon pen with a mustache, wearing a red hat, holds a floating green cube. The pen is blue and yellow, expressing joy.

Cartoon king grins confidently, wearing a gold crown and red cape with white fur trim. His arms are raised triumphantly against a plain backdrop.

How to explain to your child, Carbs are like King Carb’s minions they try to sneak in, but when we count them, we know exactly how to stop them causing trouble.”

Turning Fear into Strength

Children often worry: Will I always have to do this? The truth is yes but that doesn’t mean diabetes controls them.

In every book, Captain Lantus shows that being different can actually be a superpower. With the right tools and support, kids can live just as fully as anyone else.

Encouraging words: Your diabetes doesn’t stop you it makes you braver, stronger, and smarter. Just like Captain Lantus.”

Blue ribbon and diamond shape with a red drop, featuring text: "The Adventures of Captain Lantus" in bold, futuristic font.

Final Thoughts

Explaining Type 1 diabetes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By using characters like Captain Lantus, Mayor Bolus, Poppy, and even King Carb, families can turn medical jargon into a story of heroes and villains that children relate to.

If you’d like to bring this superhero journey to life for your child, check out The Adventures of Captain Lantus and our free activities & printable.