Seizures can be a common occurrence in schools and may happen to students with or without a prior history of seizures. For many teachers, it can be a challenge to ensure the safety and well-being of such students in classrooms.

However, with appropriate training and awareness, teachers can learn how to recognize seizures and support students effectively. In this article, we will discuss strategies for teachers to support students with seizures.

What Are Seizures?

Seizures occur when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. There are different types of seizures, and they can affect people in various ways.

Some common signs of seizures are loss of consciousness, convulsions, shaking, staring, or confusion. If a student experiences a seizure, it can be scary for them and their classmates. However, teachers can help students feel safe and supported during and after a seizure by utilizing the following strategies.

Build a Support Plan

The first step towards supporting students with seizures is creating a support plan.

Teachers should collaborate with the school nurse, parents, and the student’s doctor, if necessary, to gather information about the student’s medical history and any emergency procedures. Teachers should be aware of the student’s triggers, medications, and any specific needs they may have during a seizure.

Once this information is gathered, a detailed plan should be written outlining how the teacher can support the student in the classroom, what to do in case of a seizure, and what their responsibility is after a seizure.

Communicate with the Class

It is imperative to communicate with the class about the student’s condition, especially if they are elementary school students.

Teachers should provide age-appropriate explanations about seizures, what to do during a seizure and how to support their classmate. This will help other students feel less anxious and more prepared to respond appropriately if a seizure occurs.

Create a Safe Learning Environment

Creating a safe learning environment is a priority for teachers, but it is even more important for students with seizures. Teachers should identify any potential hazards in the classroom and eliminate them if possible.

They should also ensure that aisles and doors are free from obstructions to allow for safe movement during a seizure. Additionally, teachers should consider seating the student with seizures in a front row or near the door to facilitate a quick response in case of a seizure.

Be Aware of Warning Signs

Teachers should be aware of the warning signs that show that a student is about to experience a seizure. These can include a blank stare, a sudden change in mood, or a change in the student’s breathing pattern.

Teachers can work with the student’s parents or doctor to identify these warning signs. Once identified, the teacher can take preventative action by removing any obstacles or distractions that may trigger a seizure.

Know What to Do During a Seizure

If a seizure occurs, the teacher should remain calm and follow the instructions in the support plan that was created earlier.

Typically, there is little a teacher can do during a seizure except to ensure that the student is safe and not choking on anything. Some seizures can last for several minutes, while others may be shorter. It is crucial that the teacher follows the protocols outlined in the support plan and, when necessary, contacts emergency medical services.

Provide Emotional Support

Seizures can be emotionally distressing for students, and it is essential for teachers to provide emotional support. Teachers can reassure the student that what happened was not their fault and that they are safe.

It is also vital that the teacher checks in with the student after the seizure to ensure they are okay. Additionally, the teacher should be aware that some students may feel embarrassed or anxious after a seizure. Teachers can help alleviate these feelings by being compassionate and setting up a one-on-one meeting to talk about their experience.

Encourage Student Participation

Teachers should encourage students with seizures to participate fully in classroom activities. Students want to feel like they are part of the class and included in activities.

Some activities may need to be modified to support the student, but teachers should ensure that students with seizures are given the same opportunities to learn as others. This will help to promote a positive classroom environment that nurtures inclusivity and diversity.

Provide Additional Resources

Finally, teachers should provide additional resources to students and their families to help them understand seizures in more depth.

Teachers can provide printed resources or point them to reputable online sites that provide information in an accessible way. This additional information can help alleviate fears and misconceptions about seizures and promote understanding and compassion.

Conclusion

In summary, supporting students with seizures is integral to ensuring a safe and inclusive classroom environment. Teachers have a vital role in helping students with seizures feel safe, accepted, and heard.

By creating a support plan, educating the class, creating a safe learning environment, being aware of warning signs, knowing what to do during a seizure, providing emotional support, encouraging student participation, and providing additional resources, teachers can help promote a positive and inclusive classroom environment.