Accommodating Students with Epilepsy or Seizure Disorders: Effective Strategies for Teachers

• Published in: Physical Disabilities: Education and Related Services Vol. 34; no. 1; pp. 1 - 13
• Main Authors: Hart Barnett, Juliet E, Gay, Catherine
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Arlington Indiana University Press 01.01.2015; Division for Physical, Health, and Multiple Disabilities, Council for Exceptional Children
• Subjects: Academic Accommodations (Disabilities); Academic achievement; Childhood; Children; Classrooms; Convulsions & seizures; Drug Therapy; Epilepsy; Family School Relationship; Seizures; Special education; Special Needs Students; Student Needs; Symptoms (Individual Disorders); Teacher Role; Teachers
• ISSN: 2372-451X; 2372-451X
• DOI: 10.14434/pders.v34i1.13258

The most common chronic neurological condition in children is epilepsy. Because it often occurs in childhood, epilepsy is likely the most common neurological condition encountered by school professionals including teachers. Given the impact that epilepsy can have on academic functioning and specifically on the day-to-day performance of a student in the classroom, it is important for teachers to be aware not only of the presence of the disorder but also of the potential consequences and appropriate ways to handle these consequences should they arise. Herein we synthesize recommendations from several scientific sources to provide specific, evidence-based strategies that teachers of students with epilepsy can employ in the classroom as part of their naturally occurring instructional routines. These practical tips have useful application for both general and special education teachers.