Tourette's Syndrome

Tourette's Syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by tics - involuntary, rapid, sudden movements that occur repeatedly in the same way.  Tics are experienced as irresistible and, as the urge to sneeze, must eventually be performed.  Typically, tics increase as a result of tension or stress and decrease with relaxation or concentration on an absorbing task.

Characteristics of Tourette's Syndrome

• Involuntarily blinking of eyes
• Head jerking
• Flailing of arms
• Throat clearing
• Vocalization of obscene words
• Various tics
• Ritualistic behaviors
• The tics may come and go
• Symptoms of Tourette's syndrome may change over time

Possible Accommodations

• The student may need to use a recorder, laptop computer, or desktop computer for reading and writing problems.
• Extended time exams may be necessary in a private room if vocal tics are a problem.
• Permission for the student to leave the classroom when tics become overwhelming may help.
• The student's movements and noises can be somewhat disruptive to the class.  Remember, they are occurring involuntarily - so do not react with anger or annoyance.