Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune disease, and knowledge about the disease has increased in the last 25 years but there is still much research left to be done about type 1 diabetes in children. When a child is diagnosed it means a challenging and complex situation for the child and the family. The aim of the study was to describe children's experiences of living with type 1 diabetes. The study was conducted as a literature study in which scientific articles of qualitative design were applied. Choice of method contributed to evidence-based nursing based on analysis of qualitative research. The analysis resulted in two main themes and four sub-themes which were: The disease at the center, To constantly have to adapt, Feeling of being different, The disease does not define me, Difficulties in self-management and A desire to be able to take personal responsibility.

The results showed how children with type 1 diabetes experienced many challenges where the children´s adaptability was tested. Children are forced to adapt to their illness and it causes feelings of anxiety, frustration and fear. Many children have a desire to be independent and perceived as normal where they can create their own identity without being defined by their illness.