If your child has Tourette Syndrome (TS) and is navigating the school system, you might feel like you’re constantly facing new challenges. It can be overwhelming. This is especially true if you’re still learning about TS yourself.

• What exactly is it?
• How does it affect your child?
• And, more importantly, how can you help them succeed in school and beyond?

This blog will break down the basics of Tourette Syndrome, its symptoms, common questions, and practical ways to support your child both in and out of the classroom.

What Is Tourette Syndrome?

Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder that causes involuntary, repetitive movements or sounds. These are known as tics. It doesn’t discriminate. TS can affect kids from any background, regardless of ethnicity, culture, or economic status.

Typically, symptoms start showing up in childhood, often around age 5-10. The nature of tics can change over time. However, one thing remains the same. Your child isn’t doing it on purpose. Tics are not voluntary habits; they can’t just “stop” with enough effort. It’s a neurological process happening in their brain.

A Brief History of Tourette Syndrome

Tourette Syndrome was first described in 1885 by a French neurologist, Georges Gilles de la Tourette. His early work laid the foundation for what we now understand about tic disorders. Fast forward to today, and while research has evolved tremendously, many misconceptions still linger.

The Brain & Tourette Syndrome: What’s Happening?

Scientists believe TS originates from abnormalities in brain structure and neurotransmitter function. Essentially, the brain’s messaging system isn’t firing quite like it should. The exact cause is still unknown. However, research suggests it is genetically linked, meaning it often runs in families.

Tics happen because the brain circuits responsible for movement and impulse control are slightly out of sync. That’s why telling someone with TS to “just stop” a tic is like asking someone not to sneeze. Sometimes, you can delay it for a moment, but eventually, it happens.

Common Symptoms: What Do Tics Look Like?

Tics are the hallmark of Tourette Syndrome and can be classified as either simple or complex. 

Simple Tics (Quick, Isolated Movements or Sounds)

• Motor Tics: Eye blinking, facial grimacing, and shoulder shrugging
• Vocal Tics: Grunting, throat clearing, and sniffing

Complex Tics (Involve Multiple Movements or Sequences)

• A combination of two or more simple tics, such as head jerking and arm movements
• Repeating phrases or words

Tics often fluctuate in intensity. They might be barely noticeable one day and more pronounced the next, especially in stressful or unfamiliar situations.

What Triggers Tics?

Tics can be triggered by:

• Stress or Anxiety – A big test or a new environment can increase tics.
• Downtime & Relaxation – Some kids tic more when watching TV or before bed.
• Excitement & Fatigue – Strong emotions, both good and bad, can make tics more noticeable.

Understanding your child’s unique tic triggers can help in finding strategies to minimize their impact.

What Causes Tourette Syndrome?

The exact cause of Tourette Syndrome remains unclear. However, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, current research suggests that it may be linked to irregularities in specific brain regions, the neural circuits that connect them, and the neurotransmitters that facilitate communication between nerve cells. 

Is TS Linked to Other Disorders?

Yes. Many kids with TS also have:

• ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
• OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)
• Anxiety
• Sleeping disorders
• Mood disorders

Since these conditions often overlap, working with doctors and educators to create a well-rounded support plan is key.

Can TS be Treated? 

Treatment aims to control tics that interfere with everyday activities and functioning. However, when tics aren’t severe, treatment might not be necessary. 

Does Tourette Syndrome Get Worse Over Time?

Not necessarily. In fact, many kids see a reduction in tics as they get older. This is especially true in their late teens and early adulthood.

Is There a Cure for TS?

No. However, that doesn’t mean there’s no hope. While there’s no “off switch” for TS, plenty of strategies help manage symptoms.

Managing Tourette Syndrome: What Helps?

Not all kids with TS need treatment. However, for those who do, options include:

• Behavioral Therapy – Teaches kids techniques to manage tics
• Medication – Sometimes prescribed for severe cases
• Stress Management – Deep breathing, mindfulness, or structured routines
• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) – a newer treatment that involves implanting an electrode in the brain to help regulate abnormal activity in neural circuits

Support at home and school plays a huge role in helping kids with TS feel confident.

Supporting a Child With TS in the Classroom

Tourette Syndrome may impact your child’s educational experience. Here’s how you can help: 

Distractions and Anxiety

Some tics can cause your child to struggle with distractions or with any form of anxiety (like test anxiety). 

You can request accommodations if your child has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan. Examples include:

• Extra time for tests
• Different distraction-free locations for testing
• Scheduled movement breaks
• Alternative ways to complete assignments, such as oral responses instead of written work

Check out these additional testing accommodations. 

Foster Emotional Support

Tics can make kids feel self-conscious. Having regular check-ins with a school counselor can help them feel supported. It gives them someone to talk to about their week and have a break from the general education setting. 

Educate Teachers & Peers

Helping teachers and classmates understand TS can reduce stigma and bullying. Simple classroom discussions about TS can go a long way in fostering empathy and inclusion.

Final Thoughts: Building a Support System

Tourette Syndrome is just one part of who your child is. It doesn’t define their potential. Your child can thrive in any environment with understanding, patience, and the right resources.

If you’re looking for guidance or want a clearer understanding of your child’s learning needs, there are plenty of resources available to support you.

You can book a free consultation to explore how personalized, one-on-one tutoring could help your child build a strong foundation for future success. With the right support, we can create a tailored approach that meets their unique needs.

Don’t hesitate to reach out—sometimes, a simple conversation can lead to new opportunities and solutions you hadn’t considered before.

For more details on the benefits of special education tutoring, take a look at this overview.