Epilepsy Moms Blogs

Any child with a disability is going to have some challenges at school. They may not learn at the same level as other kids, or have problems with comprehension or following directions.

Parents must make a proactive effort to reach out to teachers to make sure the needs of their child is being met. The teachers need a full understanding of any issues your child might face and how it will affect his learning and socialization with other kids in the classroom.

Here are some of the best tools we used:

You simply cannot assume that the school has trained it’s staff to handle the various scenarios that can arise when a child with epilepsy goes to school. As a parent, you become the educator to make sure your child is as comfortable as possible and all bases are covered.

I went to great lengths to make sure the school was perfectly clear of what to expect. We did up an individual education plan together that outlined my sons abilities academically, physically and emotionally. They were then able to meet his needs and tailor the lessons to his ability.

Adam was often very groggy or even physically ill while on the medication. It was a daily adjustment for the teachers. If you feel you need extra support, enquire about getting a teachers aid – even one that can be shared with another student. Our school had a couch in the classroom that Adam could rest on if he became tired. If that is not possible, ask them if you can bring in a beanbag chair or similar.

Adam also had behavior issues and short term memory problems. I had his doctor actually come to the classroom to talk to the teachers about what they could expect and how best to deal with temper. There was a system in place if he became angry or frustrated. There was a system in place to challenge him, then play time as a reward.

We made it a priority to have him interact with other kids as much as possible. They would even give him a rotating “buddy” that would help him. This was great because it gave the kids a sense of accomplishment and protectiveness over him instead of an attitude.

You want school to be fun, but not a babysitting service. Each child will learn at a different level depending on their seizure control, medications and other underlying conditions.

The best thing you can do is have great communication. The journal was fantastic and each day the teachers wrote down what he did, any problems or concerns and comments. I also wrote back what he did in the evening or any comments I had.

I also did a great podcast where I interview the Executive Director of the Center of Epilepsy and Seizure Education where we talk about supporting your child with epilepsy.

All the best to you and your child!
Arlene Martell
EpilepsyMoms.com