Seizure disorders occur when there is a surge of electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures. There are over 40 types of seizures that vary in severity and symptoms. The two most common categories are generalized seizures, which affect the entire brain, and partial seizures, which affect only one part of the brain. As a teacher, it is important to be aware of a student's seizure needs and form an emergency plan with the student and family. The plan should outline medication schedules, contact information, and procedures for responding to seizures. Teachers should also provide academic accommodations like extra time, breaking down assignments, and using organizational strategies to help students with seizure-related memory and focus issues.

1. Seizure DisordersAleah DepewKatelyn TurgeonGabrielle Davis

2. What Is It?The brain is responsible for communicating with the rest of the body. When a strong surge of electrical activity is experienced in one central part of the brain, seizures can occur.1 in 10 adults will experience a seizure at least once in their life.

3. There are over 40 different kinds of seizures, each one varies in severity and symptoms, and falls under a different category.The two most common categories are: Generalized and Partial.How Many Are There?

4. What Is A Generalized Seizure?Web M.D.

5. What Is A Partial Seizure?Web M.D.

6. As a teacher, the number one thing we should do is be aware of the student’s needs. In order to do that, a teacher should formulate a plan with the student and their family in the event of an emergency. This plan should include but not be limited to:A place within the classroom for students to go in order to lie down when a seizure is comingPrescribed medication and times when student needs to take it, and what to do if medicine is skipped or accidentally doubled.Contact name or number of school counselor, nurse, or parent for help.A place outside the classroom the student can go if violent outbursts, rages happen.Classmate helpers, who will remove dangerous jewelry, eyewear, clear away furniture, supply a pillow, turn student to help with breathing, etcWhat Should We Do?

7. How Do We Accommodate?Students with seizure disorders often have problems with their memory and organization skills. To accommodate that, a teacher should:Require that the student keep a planner to write down all assignments. And that the student have color coded notebooks to organize different subjects.Be willing to accommodate extra time for assignments or tests.Decide on a verbal or visual cue that the student can use if they feel a seizure approaching.Break down larger assignments into smaller parts.Use repetitive strategies throughout a unit.Provide mnemonic devices to aid the child with memorization.Most important? Maintain communication with the student and their family.

8. Epilepsy FoundationEpilepsy AdvocateHelping Students With SeizuresResources