Quick answer: Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition that causes involuntary tics: repeated movements and sounds. Tourette syndrome at school is best supported by understanding that tics are not on purpose, reducing stress, ignoring tics that can be ignored and addressing co-occurring conditions such as ADHD and OCD, which often cause more difficulty than the tics. The CDC estimates about 1 in 162 children have Tourette syndrome, and about half are not diagnosed.
In this guide
A student blinks hard, clears their throat or jerks their shoulder over and over. A teacher may think they are being disruptive. In reality, tics are involuntary, and the effort to hold them back can be exhausting. Supporting Tourette syndrome at school starts with that understanding.
Understanding Tics
| Simple | Complex | |
|---|---|---|
| Motor tics | Eye blinking, shoulder shrug, head jerk | Jumping, touching objects, combined movements |
| Vocal tics | Sniffing, throat clearing, grunting | Words or phrases; swearing (coprolalia) is rare |
Why tics get worse
Key Facts About Tourette Syndrome
The CDC reports that about 1 in 333 U.S. children aged 3 to 17 had a diagnosis of Tourette syndrome in 2016 to 2019, and estimates the true number is about 1 in 162. Boys are about three times more likely to have TS, and about 83% of children with TS have at least one other mental, behavioral or developmental condition (CDC).
Key point: For many students, ADHD, OCD or anxiety affect learning more than the tics themselves. See OCD in schools.
Tourette Syndrome at School: Do and Do Not
| Do | Do not |
|---|---|
| Ignore tics that can be ignored | Ask the student to “just stop” |
| Offer a private break space | Punish tics or count them as misbehavior |
| Plan with the student for hard-to-ignore tics | Draw class attention to tics |
| Reduce stress during tests | Assume tics mean the student is not paying attention |
These recommendations follow the Tourette Association of America’s advice for teachers (Tourette Association).
Accommodations for Tourette Syndrome
- Testing in a separate room to allow tics without worry.
- Extra time, since tics and suppression interrupt work.
- Keyboard, scribe or provided notes for handwriting tics.
- Permission to leave class briefly using a pre-agreed signal.
- Seating near the door or at the back to reduce attention.
- Alternatives to oral presentations when vocal tics are strong.
Student break signal agreement
“When my tics get really strong, I will put my blue card on the desk and go to the counseling office for up to 10 minutes. I will come back and finish my work. My teacher will not ask questions in front of the class.”
Talking With Classmates
With the student’s and family’s permission, a short, matter-of-fact explanation can reduce teasing: “Some people’s brains send signals that make their body move or make sounds. These are called tics. They are not on purpose. The best thing we can do is keep going as usual.”
Real-Life Example
Case story
Ben, 10, has Tourette syndrome and ADHD. His vocal tics increased during tests, and he was often sent to the hallway. His 504 plan added separate-setting testing, a break card and keyboard use for long writing. His teacher began ignoring his tics in class. Within weeks, Ben’s tics during class decreased and his test scores rose.
Teacher’s note: Many students with TS also benefit from ADHD accommodations because the two often occur together.
Tourette Syndrome at School FAQ
Can students with Tourette syndrome control their tics?
Some can suppress tics briefly, but it is tiring and tics often return stronger.
How common is Tourette syndrome?
The CDC estimates about 1 in 162 children, with about half undiagnosed.
Does Tourette syndrome qualify for a 504 plan or IEP?
Yes, when it affects learning; often under Other Health Impairment for an IEP.
Do all people with Tourette swear?
No. Coprolalia affects only a minority of people with TS.
What makes tics worse?
Stress, anxiety, excitement, fatigue and attention drawn to the tics.
In short: Tourette syndrome at school needs calm, informed adults, flexible accommodations and attention to co-occurring conditions. This article is part of our Disabilities Less Covered series.
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Sources
- CDC. Data and Statistics on Tourette Syndrome
- Tourette Association of America. 10 Things Teachers Can Do
- Tourette Association of America. Tics in the Classroom: An Educator’s Guide
This article is educational and does not replace medical advice.
