Managing type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in preschool-aged children and adolescents has unique challenges that can negatively impact glycemic control and parental coping. Adolescence is a vulnerable period for the deterioration of glycemic control in patients with T1DM and currently there are few efficient and cost effective tools to support the adolescent population during this difficult time. In a recent pilot study, I found that incorporating the structured care of a pet into a diabetes self-management routine improved the HbA1c level in adolescent patients with T1DM who had not achieved their target glycemic control.  Similarly, behavioral challenges that are common among young children, including mealtime and bedtime habits, can be exacerbated in young children with T1DM, yielding significant parental distress and poor glycemic control.  To address these family-related issues, we developed a family centered, camp-based multi-component intervention in young children with T1DM that improved HbA1c and perceived QOL and stress in their mothers.