Tips for parents of children with epilepsy

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If your child has epilepsy, there are many ways to lower his or her risk of injury and avoid embarrassment sometimes caused by seizures:

Use padded side rails and waterproof pads on cribs and beds.
Use car seats and seat belts, and have your child wear a helmet when biking, skiing, or skating.
Do not let your child swim alone.
If you have a young child, do not leave him or her alone in the bathtub. Older children with epilepsy should take showers instead of baths.
Tell your child's teachers and sports coaches that your child has epilepsy, and tell them what to do if he or she has a seizure at school or during practice.
Your child may have to take medicine during school hours. If you can, keep a supply of medicine with the school nurse and another supply at home. Setting up a schedule that lets your child take the medicine at lunch, recess, or during class breaks may make it easier for the child.
Have your child wear a medical identification bracelet (such as MedicAlert). A medical ID bracelet will help doctors and other people know that your child has epilepsy. It will also list any medicines your child is taking.

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Author	Monica Rhodes
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Theresa O'Young, PharmD - Clinical Pharmacist
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Steven C. Schachter, MD - Neurology
Last Updated	October 29, 2007

Last updated:	October 29, 2007
Author:	Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Steven C. Schachter, MD - Neurology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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