Tourette Syndrome & Vocal Tics in the Class

My son was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome a few months ago and has had tics for a little more than a year. His tics have been mostly motor so far, but he has sniffed excessively (not due to a cold) off and on as well. Recently, he started barking and making a croaking noise. His teacher at daycare (he's 4) is at a loss for how to deal with this. He understands that it's best to ignore the noise, but the other children find it hysterical, so before you know it they are all croaking away, and how does he tell them no but not my son? He tends to do this mostly when they are involved in a quiet activity such as circle time.

So, I am writing to see if anyone has tips they have shared with teachers about dealing with vocal tics. His motor tics they have ignored, and the other children barely notice them so this is a new issue.

I should add, this school is not his primary school--he's there this week while his school is closed. Generally, he goes to this daycare late afternoon for a couple hours and that's it. I'm thinking we may need to find a way to take time off for these school holidays in future. So while he likes going there, his routine has changed and he's probably stressed.

Re: Tourette Syndrome & Vocal Tics in the Class

Contact the Touettes Society of America... They should have resources for teachers.

I consulted for some students with Tourette's. The most important thing is to allow them an opportunity to get tics out before an activity. This should be communicated to them. If they feel they have to suppress them they get nervous and actually tic more. It's like a sneezing or a coughing fit.

He should have the opportunity to get tics out before an activity, and then have a safe place to go if he feels the tics coming on during. He can go there, get them out, and then return.

This all comes from Tourette's society of America, and these strategies worked for the students i consulted on.

Let me know if you have any questions!

Re: Tourette Syndrome & Vocal Tics in the Class

Quick search I just did brought this

Re: Tourette Syndrome & Vocal Tics in the Class

Thank you! This makes sense, I will share with the teachers at both of his schools, this seems to be new for all of them. I'll also give them a call and see what other info they can share.