Tourette's syndrome is a neurodivergent condition which can cause people to make sounds and movements that they can't control. These are called tics.
Tics are often fast and repetitive, with an uncomfortable feeling or urge that builds up before they happen. People may go on to experience vocal tics, motor tics or a combination of both:
Someone may be diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome if they have experienced several tics for at least a year. Tics can change in frequency throughout someone's life, with periods of more or less tics.
Tourette's Syndrome can vary from person to person. Some people may have just a few tics that do not interfere with daily life, while for others, tics can be frequent or more complex which have a more significant impact.
Tics can be aggravated when a child or young person's emotions are heightened, so they might tic more than usual when stressed, excited or nervous. This is why it can be helpful to support your child in finding ways to relax and build healthy routines to reduce any causes of distress.
Some young people find they tic less often when engaging in activities that require high levels of concentration, like reading for pleasure and playing sports. In many cases, tics can improve and may go away by late adolescence.
Tics can be very common in childhood, are not usually serious and improve over time. Some children can have tics for several months before growing out of them.
You can help your child at home by:
If you are concerned or need some advice and support, book an appointment with your child's GP.
Healthcare
If tics are mild and not causing any problems, you don't always need to see a GP. But if you are concerned, or need advice and support, booking an appointment to see your GP is the first step.
Find advice for mild tics here
Education
It can be uncomfortable and frustrating for children and young people with visible or audible tics. There are various ways that a special educational needs coordinator (SENDCo) can arrange support for your young person to allow them to feel more comfortable accessing their education.
Support would be based on the needs and wishes of your child, but useful adjustments can include:
Let us know what you think!
We've been working together in Norfolk and Waveney with families and professionals to put together information, advice and resources that are helpful to families. Let us know what you think, and anything we could change or add to make it even better.
If you live in Norfolk
You can contact the Healthy Child Service team by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or texting Parentline on 07520 631590. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you are 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for confidential advice from one of our team.
If you live in Waveney
Norfolk SEND Local Offer provide information and advice on services for young people with additional needs in Norfolk.
Suffolk SEND Local Offer provide information and advice on services for young people with additional needs in Waveney.
Mencap is a national charity who support people with learning disabilities. They offer a free Learning Disability Helpline with advice and guidance. Call 0808 808 1111 to speak to a trained professional.
Kooth offers online counselling, advice and emotional well-being support for anyone aged 10-18, seven days a week until 10pm.
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