Although my son is not experiencing any behavioral problems as such, I am aware that there will be certain provisions that will have to be made within the classroom to support his needs. I am concerned about how this might affect others around him and in turn their relationships with him. I would hate to think that they would start to treat him differently once they become aware of his needs. I'm not really sure how much they will need to know about his condition. Will they need to be made aware of the signs that he is having a seizure so they can alert his teacher? I really don't want this to have to alter his care-free school life.
Louise
How epilepsy can affect other kids in the classroom
Hi Louise,
Your concerns about how other kids in the classroom will react are valid. There are some steps you can take and communication with the teacher is the starting point. Any issues that are not communicated properly can turn into problems and it is best to meet with the teacher and discuss your concerns.
Today there is so much being taught in schools about acceptance and bullying, that I find that kids are very receptive to anyone who may need extra help. A lot will depend on how often your son has seizures and what type of seizures he has. Often the teacher will select one of the best suited kids in the class to sit beside your child as an extra support. The whole class will not need to know about his situation.
If there were any concerns raised about your child from other parents, they would be voiced at the PAC (parent advisory committee) meetings, or at the parent teacher interviews. Make sure you are present at these meetings, keep an open mind to what is being said and work together towards a solution.
Remember to keep a good record of your sons seizures so you can communicate this to the school if you think it could be an issue.
Schools today have structures in place so that if your child needs assistance beyond what the teacher can provide, a referral can be made to get extra support in place.
One last tip - volunteer at the school or in the classroom and develop a good relationship with the principal and teacher.
Arlene Martell
Publisher, EpilepsyMoms.com
Other kids in the classroom
I think it depends on the age of the kids. In early elementary school, kids are more likely to be supportive. As they get older, though, this isn't often the case. Sarah's 15, and, with one or two exceptions, her 'friends' aren't. That's why there's a big push from the US Epilepsy Foundation for teens with epilepsy to come out of the closet about it--because their peers can be so cruel.
I'm just really grateful that she's found some other kids her age with epilepsy through a support group.
Annie