Seizures and Bullying

What would happen if my daughter had a seizure after raising her hand to answer a question in class?  

A seizure for my daughter looks like a long pause, a staring spell. To some, it might look like she forgot what to say, or didn't know the answer. 

If you haven't stepped foot in an elementary school lately, you should.

I regularly substitute teach in my local elementary school. Recently when subbing for a gym teacher, I had two students hit me from behind with a pool noodle during a game of "octopus tag." 

 Kids are brutal.

Like our ancient ancestors, kids make up stories to explain the unknown. An absence seizure that happens in front of the class can take on wings and fly off into the realm of exaggeration and storytelling very quickly in a school setting. Kids have very little impulse control, and they say what they feel without having developed any empathy. 

My daughter might not even realize she has had a seizure in class when all of a sudden, her peers ask her questions about what is wrong with her. 

Low self-esteem is more common for students with medical conditions. The side effects alone of anti-seizure medication can cause issues with self-esteem. Now that vulnerable child has to navigate the social ups and downs of a school setting. 

How do we prevent our seizure-prone kids from suffering in school? 

Teachers can be a huge advocate for the students in their classrooms who are different. Embracing a classroom culture that acknowledges, supports, and encourages differences is a significant first step. 

The building of an inclusive classroom culture is one of the single most important factors in creating a culture of kindness and acceptance among students. These kids are together every day, they have to be taught by their teacher how to work as a community that is positive for all students. 

A seizure can be a scary thing to watch. Kids may try and redirect their fears by using humor, and this can quickly lead to one or more students with hurt feelings. When a teacher has a classroom culture that encourages open discussion and the honest asking of questions, this fear is less likely to turn into bullying. 

As a teacher and a parent, I encourage my child to be open about what a seizure might look like for her. By being able to explain to her peers what a seizure is, empowers my child to address their questions head-on and prevent any potential rumors.  

Every child, regardless of their medical status, is entitled to privacy. Sometimes my daughter doesn't like talking about her "Apple-epsy." But explaining what epilepsy is and what seizures look like to a classroom of curious kids can prevent your student from having to deal with rapid-fire questions from their curious classmates after a seizure has happened. 

It is so important to share your seizure action plan with any adults that may encounter your child throughout their day. Educated adults can help address student curiosity for your child in the event of a seizure. 

We all know what curiosity in kids can lead to. Knowledge truly is power in these types of situations.  

We've worked hard to help our child be able to explain what epilepsy means and what a seizure is. We've done this to empower her to address situations that could impact her negatively in school. 

If you think your child is being bullied because of their epilepsy or for any other reason, don't hesitate to get the school involved. 

Abby
Guest Blogger 

NOTE from Vikki: Even when a child tells you to not get involved because it could make things worse, you still need to report bullying behavior - - by student OR staff - - to the Principal or even the School Board. Consider also filing charges with the police department, especially if the child is hurt in any way. Keep a paper and voice-mail trail. You don't WANT to sue someone, but ... just in case.

Remember, YOU are your child's best advocate.