Back to School Support for All Ages
Returning to school after summer break can be difficult for many students, and transitioning back into a classroom for a student with Tourette Syndrome can be an extremely challenging for all those who are involved. This page provides tools for children, teens, parents, and educators to ensure a smooth start to a new school year.New TAA Back to School Resources
Resources for Kids
Related Resources on School- Related Challenges:
Exploring Life: Facing Challenges at School (Comic Book)
Social Functioning in Tourette Syndrome
Classroom Behavior Management for Children with Tourette Syndrome
Related Resources on Co- Occuring Conditions:
Resources for Teens and College
Getting into college can be a challenge for young adults with Tourette Syndrome or disabilities. Click the photo above to hear Dr. Shirag Shemmassian, an expert on college admissions, offer advice and insight for getting into college and transitioning to college life.
The process of applying for Standardized tests accommodations for students with disabilities can be complex. For students with TS, this often involves requests for additional information as well as significant and time-consuming documentation. For more information on taking standardized tests with Tourette Syndrome, click the photo above.
Teens and young adults with Tourette Syndrome can enjoy an exciting college experience. Click the photo above for helpful resources for applying to and transitioning to college life.
Related Resources on Preparing for College:
Related Resources on the College Experience:
Resources for Parents
Attending school can be challenging in many ways for children with Tourette Syndrome. Parents advocating in a positive manner demonstrate their intention of being a member of the team that supports their child in obtaining an education. Click the photo above to learn how to advocate for your child.
Returning to school after summer break can be difficult for many students. Transitioning back into a classroom after being home all summer can be a big adjustment. Click the photo above for some tips on how to have an easy transition for your child.
Children with Tourette Syndrome often face significant challenges in school due to vocal and motor tics, as well as co-occurring conditions such as ADD, ADHD, OCD, dysgraphia, etc. Effective communication with school administrators and your child’s “team” is essential to helping your child succeed and benefit from appropriate accommodations such as IEPs and 504 plans.Click the photo above for more information on IEPs. 504s, and other accommodations.
Related Resources on Advocacy:
Education Advocacy: The Basics for Helping your Child w TS
How to Advocate for your Child in School
Communicating with your Child’s School
Building and Maintaining Positive Partnerships with Your Child’s School
Living with Tourette & Tic Disorders: A Guide for Patients and Families (Tool Kit)
Resources for Educators
Tourette Syndrome (TS) can be a challenging diagnosis and have a major impact on the education process. Using effective supports is critical in helping students with TS reach their fullest potential. Click the photo above for an Educator’s Guide for Developing Plans for Students with Tourette Syndrome.
A student with Tourette Syndrome has certain education rights and accommodations. These include a 504 Plan, an Independent Education Plan (IEP), as well as laws advocating for children with special needs such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a special education law, and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), a general education law. For more information on accommodations and education rights, click the photo above.
Educators and support staff need to recognize complex symptoms and develop effective support plans to allow children with Tourette Syndrome (TS) and Tic Disorders to thrive both socially and academically. Click the photo above for a comprehensive guide for educators.
Related Resources on Classroom Strategies:
Classroom Strategies/ Techniques for Students with Tourette Syndrome
Tics in the Classroom: An Educator’s Guide
Related Resources on Behavioral Issues and Learning Disabilities:
Related Resources for College Professors and School Staff:
Five Things College Professors Need to Know about Tourette Syndrome
Ten Things College Professors Can Do for Students with Tourette Syndrome
