Sending Your Child with Epilepsy to School for the First Time

As summer comes to a close, you may be preparing to send your child to school for the first time. This can be a nerve-racking transition for any parent or child, and especially for children with epilepsy. But there are ways to be prepared and to find the support both you and your child need.

5 Ways to Prepare Your Child for Their First School Year  

1. Review Resources and Plans

To start, your child may have an individualized education plan (IEP) for epilepsy. Review the plan and connect with your school to address any concerns. Some children are also entitled to accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Schools create 504 plans to give children with disabilities the support they need for any condition that limits daily activities in a major way and helps protect your child’s rights.  

Check with your local Epilepsy Foundation for information about laws and services in your state.

2. Create Your Child’s Seizure Action Plan

Create a seizure action plan to provide detailed information about your child’s epilepsy and what to do in the event of a seizure. It is helpful for teachers and school nurses to have a copy of the plan. Share your plan with anyone else who may need a copy.

If you already have a seizure action plan for your child, review it and make updates as needed. You may also want to consider making an acute seizure action plan, too. An acute seizure action plan is a shorter plan used in the case of a seizure emergency.  

3. Talk About Seizures

It’s important for children with epilepsy to know they are not alone. Talking about seizures in an age-appropriate way can help ease your child’s fear or worry about having a seizure at school. Some teachers may not have experience with epilepsy and may have questions, too. Your child’s teacher can also help other students in the class learn about epilepsy and be prepared if a seizure happens.  

4. Share Resources

The Epilepsy Foundation’s Seizure Safe Schools program gives educators, parents, and leaders the knowledge and skills to understand and respond to seizures. Materials are free, with age-appropriate toolkits, short videos, and trainings, including seizure first aid. Share these resources that are helpful for everyone and support your child’s safety.

5. Establish a Routine

Adapting your routines for bedtime, meals, or medication schedules can help your child adjust to a new school schedule. Making sure your child gets enough sleep is especially important as lack of sleep can trigger seizures. Talk to your child’s doctor before making any significant changes to their medication schedule.  

More back to school resources include further tips for success, seizure safety, and medication resources. With some planning and open conversations, you can help ensure a successful start to school for your child living with epilepsy.

This article is in partnership with Neurelis.