By Grace Huff
In the vibrant environment of a classroom, students with Tourette Syndrome (TS) often face unique challenges. For students with TS, involuntary actions are not just distractions — they are symptoms of a neurological disorder that affects approximately 1 in 100 children. As highlighted by the latest Tourette Impact Survey from the Tourette Association of America (2022), up to 80% of parents feel their child’s tics negatively impact their schooling. This statistic highlights a significant issue: without proper education, teachers may misinterpret these uncontrollable movements and sounds as mere disruptions or attention-seeking behavior, rather than symptoms of a neurological condition. This misunderstanding can lead to inappropriate responses, including disciplinary measures, exacerbating students’ symptoms and hindering their educational progress.
Tourette Syndrome is characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements, and vocalizations. These tics range from simple motor movements, like blinking or head jerking, to complex vocalizations. The impact on a student’s education can be profound, affecting their ability to concentrate, interact socially, and perform academically. Given these challenges, educators must understand TS to foster a supportive learning environment.
To address this need, the The Norman Fixel Institute of Neurological Diseases TS Center of Excellence (TS CoE) has launched a new online course titled “Tourette Syndrome in Schools: Understanding Tics, the Impact on Learning, and How to Manage in the School Environment.” This self-paced course is designed to provide educators and parents with essential knowledge and practical strategies to support students with TS. It is available free of charge from Aug. 1, 2023, to July 31, 2025.
The course features a comprehensive curriculum divided into several key modules: Understanding the Basics of Tics and Tourette Syndrome, How Tics Impact Education, and Classroom Strategies for Success with Tourette Syndrome. Additional modules focus on Managing Challenging Symptoms and Advocating for Students with TS, offering participants a thorough toolkit to effectively support these students.
Feedback from course participants has been overwhelmingly positive. One educator remarked, “I learned a great deal about Tourette Syndrome and how I can best provide support for these students as an OT in the schools.” Another participant highlighted the course’s practical value, stating, “This course helped me become more aware of the day-to-day challenges that a student with Tourette’s can have. I believe this has made me more understanding of what is going on with the student.”
The course has also demonstrated tangible benefits in real school settings. Educators report improved classroom dynamics and better support for students with TS, thanks to the knowledge and strategies gained from the course. This course represents a vital resource for enhancing the understanding and support of students with Tourette Syndrome. By equipping educators and parents with the tools necessary to create a supportive educational environment, we help ensure that students with TS have the opportunity to succeed and thrive in school.
Educators and parents interested in enrolling can sign up here. For further inquiries, please contact Heather Simpson, OTD, OTR/L, at (352) 265-9992 or via email at tourettecarecenters@gmail.com.