10 Tips for Parents of Kids With Epilepsy

These 10 tips can help you navigate your child's epilepsy diagnosis.

1. Get all the facts. When your child is first diagnosed, talk with their epilepsy care team about what to expect. Pay close attention to details about how epilepsy and seizures will affect your child. You'll want to know the specific type or types of seizures your child has and what to do if they occur.
2. Stay on track with treatment. Missed medications can trigger seizures, so it's critical for your child to take medications exactly as directed by the doctor.
   
   If your child's treatment isn't working or is causing side effects, talk with their care team about other treatment options, such as different anti-seizure medications, the ketogenic diet, medical implants and surgery.
3. Be open with your child. Talk to your child about epilepsy in a developmentally appropriate way, keeping the conversation positive, honest and open. Be sure your chat about seizures includes the symptoms your child may notice when one is about to occur.
4. Help your child avoid seizure triggers. Certain factors – such as stress, missed medication doses, sleep deprivation and even blinking lights – can make seizures more likely to occur. Seizure triggers vary from person to person and not everyone has them.
   
   Younger children will need your help avoiding their triggers, but older kids and teens with epilepsy can start learning about how to avoid or minimize them on their own.
5. Watch for warning signs. Some people with epilepsy have specific symptoms before a seizure occurs, such as vertigo, anxiety or visual disturbances (for example, seeing bright lights or spots).
6. Educate others about epilepsy. Having epilepsy may make your child feel different from their peers, which can lead to feelings of loneliness or insecurity. Help those in your child's life – including family members, friends and teachers – understand their diagnosis. Make sure the adults know basic seizure first aid in case your child has a seizure while with them.
7. Encourage your child to be a child. Most kids with epilepsy can participate in normal childhood activities, including sports, as long as precautions are taken. Being socially active and involved will help your child handle the emotional aspects of having epilepsy and enjoy a fulfilling childhood.
8. Empower teens. As your teenager becomes more independent, talk openly with them about the condition and how to manage it. Help them learn to make responsible lifestyle choices, such as taking their medications on time without reminders, getting enough sleep, and not using drugs and alcohol.
9. Remember that things will change. While many children eventually outgrow epilepsy, it's a lifelong condition for some. Your child's treatment regimen may need to be adjusted over time, and they may eventually transition to adult epilepsy care.
10. Practice self-care. You can't take care of your child effectively without taking good care of yourself. Be sure you're finding time to relax, eating healthy meals, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep. You'll be a better parent when you do.