If your child has Tourette Syndrome (TS), navigating school can feel challenging, especially if you’re still getting familiar with it yourself. The tics, the questions, and the occasional misunderstandings can leave you feeling overwhelmed.
What is TS exactly?
How does it affect your child?
And how can you support them in school and beyond?
This article breaks down the basics of Tourette Syndrome, its symptoms, and practical ways to help your child thrive.
What Is Tourette Syndrome?
Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder that causes involuntary, repetitive movements or sounds. These movements and sounds are called ""tics."" TS affects children of all backgrounds and is usually noticed between the ages of 5 and 10.
The key thing to understand is that your child’s tics are not intentional. They are not habits they can simply stop with enough effort. It’s all due to a neurological process happening in the brain.
A Brief History of Tourette Syndrome
Tourette Syndrome was first described in 1885 by a French doctor named Georges Gilles de la Tourette. Since then, we’ve learned a lot about the condition, but many myths and misconceptions still remain.
What Happens in the Brain with TS?
Scientists believe TS happens because of issues in certain brain circuits that control movement and impulses. These circuits don’t work in sync, leading to tics. While we still don’t know the exact cause, researchers think there’s a genetic link, meaning it can run in families.
Tics are automatic. Telling a child to ""just stop"" a tic is like asking someone to stop sneezing. It can be delayed, but it’s not something they can control easily.
What Do Tics Look Like?
Tics can be either simple or complex:
Simple Tics (quick, isolated movements or sounds)
Motor tics: Eye blinking, facial grimaces, shoulder shrugging
Vocal tics: Grunting, throat clearing, sniffing
Complex Tics (more involved, like a series of movements or sounds)
A combination of motor tics (e.g., head jerking and arm movements)
Repeating words or phrases
Tics can change in intensity. They might be barely noticeable one day and more obvious the next, especially in stressful or unfamiliar situations.
What Triggers Tics?
Tics can be triggered by different things, such as:
Stress or anxiety (e.g., before a test or in new environments)
Relaxation (e.g., watching TV or before bed)
Excitement or fatigue (strong emotions, whether good or bad)
Recognizing these triggers can help you find strategies to reduce their impact.
What Causes Tourette Syndrome?
Although the exact cause is unclear, research suggests it may be linked to irregularities in brain regions and the neural circuits that connect them. It’s also believed to have a genetic component, meaning it can run in families.
Is TS Linked to Other Conditions?
Yes, many children with TS also have:
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)
Anxiety disorders
Sleep issues
Mood disorders
Because of these overlapping conditions, working with doctors, therapists, and teachers to create a complete support plan is essential.
Can TS Be Treated?
While there is no cure for TS, treatment focuses on managing tics that interfere with daily life. For many kids, treatment isn’t necessary unless their tics cause significant problems.
Does Tourette Syndrome Get Worse Over Time?
Not always. Many kids see a reduction in tics as they get older, especially in their late teens or early adulthood.
How Can You Manage Tourette Syndrome?
While there’s no ""cure"" for TS, there are strategies to help manage symptoms:
Behavioral therapy: Teaches kids ways to manage their tics
Medication: Prescribed for severe cases
Stress management: Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and structured routines
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): A newer treatment that helps regulate brain activity through an implanted electrode
Support at home and in school is key in helping your child feel confident.
Supporting Your Child with TS at School
Tourette Syndrome can affect your child’s experience in school, but there are ways to help:
Distractions and Anxiety: Some tics may make it harder for your child to focus, especially during stressful situations like tests.
You can request accommodations through an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan, such as:
Extra time for tests
A quieter place for testing
Regular movement breaks
Alternative ways to complete assignments (like oral instead of written responses)
Emotional Support: Tics can make kids feel self-conscious. Regular check-ins with a school counselor can help them feel supported and give them a break from the classroom environment.
Educating Teachers and Peers: Teaching teachers and classmates about TS can reduce bullying and stigma. Simple classroom discussions can encourage understanding and inclusion.
Final Thoughts: Building a Support System
Tourette Syndrome is just one part of who your child is. It doesn’t define their potential. With the right support, your child can thrive at school and in life. Understanding, patience, and the right resources are crucial.
If you need guidance or want to understand your child’s learning needs better, many resources are available to support you. You can even book a free consultation to explore how one-on-one tutoring can help your child build confidence and succeed.