Jerry the Bear

Jerry the Bear is an innovative app designed to support children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. This application offers an engaging and educational approach by letting users care for a virtual bear named Jerry, who also has diabetes. By interacting with Jerry, users can learn invaluable diabetes management skills in an enjoyable and interactive way.

When downloaded, users step into a virtual world where managing diabetes becomes a part of everyday play. They'll be tasked with monitoring Jerry’s blood sugar levels using a virtual glucometer and administering insulin through either a pen or a pump. This hands-on approach helps demystify the procedures for young learners and makes managing diabetes more relatable and less daunting.

The app also includes a feature allowing interaction with the virtual world via a camera, enhancing the immersive experience. Users will explore nutritional values as they feed Jerry a variety of foods, learning about the impact of carbohydrates on blood sugar levels. Through Jerry's Kitchen, users can prepare meals and see real-time effects of different foods.

Moreover, Jerry’s Stories integrates learning with fun through 21 animated books that follow Jerry as he engages in new activities and sports, promoting both physical health and educational growth. Completing tasks with Jerry's trainer, Navi, not only progresses the story but reinforces daily management tasks.

This tool is a unique resource that makes learning about diabetes management engaging and accessible, empowering children with knowledge and confidence in a safe and playful environment. It is available for free, and for enhanced interaction, a companion stuffed animal can be purchased to bring Jerry right into your home, bridging the gap between virtual learning and real-life application.