Epileptic Children in the Classroom

We are half way through our Understanding Special Needs series and today we are going to be talking about Epilepsy.

Let’s start with the statistics. . .

• Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological problem
• 48 out of 100,000 people will develop epilepsy
• In America, there are 300,000 children under the age of 14 with Epilepsy

What exactly is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a physical condition that occurs when there is a sudden, brief change in how the brain works. Epilepsy is called a seizure disorder because the brain cells do not work properly causing the person to have seizure.

Although some people can experience a seizure, it may not necessarily mean that they have Epilepsy. Many children with Epilepsy will experience blackouts, unexplained periods of unresponsiveness, involuntary movement of arms and legs, fainting spells, and distorted feelings of fear.

What can teachers do to help?

First, know that students with Epilepsy are eligible for special education and related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Many students with a seizure disorder will have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) because seizures may interfere with the child’s ability to learn. It is important to observe and document any episode that the child has in the classroom and report them promptly to the parents, school nurses, principal, and any fellow teachers who work with the child throughout the day.

It is important that the teachers and school staff are informed of the child’s condition, possible effects of medication, and what to do in case a seizure occurs. School personnel and the family should work together to monitor the effectiveness of medication as well as any side effects. Children and youth with Epilepsy have to deal with other aspects besides seizures, including psychological and social aspects. The main thing to remember is be nurturing and educate yourself about seizures and the medical attention you should know if it happens in the classroom. Always document each and every seizure and remind staff of the child’s current condition.

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