Q: Is any special care needed for children with epilepsy while at school or play?

A: Epilepsy is common in school going children. Most children with epilepsy can be in a normal class or school and have the same intelligence and learning abilities as compared to children without epilepsy. Some children (those with poorly controlled seizures or associated handicaps) may need special attention while at school and play. Children with epilepsy, whose fits are well controlled, must be encouraged to express their full potential as they can do as well as their peers. Children with poorly controlled seizures can be on multiple drugs and have associated physical or mental handicaps. They can have poor school performance due to frequent fits and effect of anti-epileptic drugs on the learning and memory. These situations should be recognized and proper attention given as and when possible. Such children should not be overprotected. Concern about safety of children with epilepsy may lead to them being stopped from their daily activities. Such restrictions are often unnecessary and should be individualized for each child. Children whose seizures are controlled can participate in most normal activities including sports, athletics, cycling etc. Even those who do not have complete control of seizures can carry out most such activities under supervision. Most children with epilepsy can watch TV and play with video games.