Seizures and School
Learning Implications associated with Epilepsy
504 Plan
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Improving Quality of Life for Children with Epilepsy
Talking to Children About Seizures
Learning Implications associated with Epilepsy
The impact on learning will vary according to seizure frequency, area of brain affected and coexisting conditions. Neuropsychological testing can be utilized to better understand unique needs of individual students. For children with epilepsy, their availability to learn may vary on a daily basis therefore instructional accommodations need to be developed that address the variations in each child's medical profile.
Children with epilepsy frequently face challenges in school and in after school activities. These challenges become obstacles to learning and living. To promote the highest quality of life for children with epilepsy, appropriate educational programming is essential.
Children with medical disabilities may be protected under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The Act mandates that children with medical conditions receive appropriate accommodations in the school environment. The school's special education team meets to assess how a child's medical condition will impact school success and the need for a 504 Plan. A 504 Plan should be written with specific, well detailed medical and educational accommodations that address the impact of a child's medical condition on school success.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Individual Education Plans (IEPs) are required for children when specific disabilities impede learning. A full Case Study Evaluation must be conducted to determine needs. The local school special education team and parent(s) meet to discuss the appropriate educational plan for a student. IEPs spell out measurable goals and objectives that address the adverse impact a disability has on learning. IEPs are carefully detailed legal documents that identify the educational, medical, and social/emotional needs of a student. The least restrictive environment (LRE) must be considered when making children eligible for services.
Improving Quality of Life for Children with Epilepsy
Epilepsy impacts functioning through three avenues: the seizures themselves, the effects of treatments and the stigma of epilepsy. Epilepsy affects a child's ability to learn, mood and behavior and their ability to function independently.
To improve a child with epilepsy's quality of life an environment of understanding and safety needs to be created. It is important to provide social and emotional support. Caregivers should seek to empower the child to overcome obstacles to promote independence. If a child has coexisting conditions, such as attentional problems or cerebral palsy, these should be addressed and learning should be maximized by making appropriate accommodations.
Talking to Children About Seizures
Children who will be exposed to a child with epilepsy need to be prepared for what they will see if the child has a seizure in their presence. Explain to the child what a seizure is and what will happen in developmentally appropriate language. Have a plan for what the other children should do when a child has a seizure. Address fears and anxieties, for example that you cannot “catch” seizures from your friend. Finally, teach children the importance of being kind to children with epilepsy, embrace differences in all children.