November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM), a time to increase understanding and support for the millions of people impacted by this neurological condition. In the United States alone, approximately 3.4 million people live with epilepsy, including nearly 470,000 children. Because seizures can occur anywhere, from classrooms and school buses to playgrounds and after-school activities, families, educators and school personnel all share a vital responsibility in helping students stay safe, supported, and ready to learn.
Understanding Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes recurring, unprovoked seizures. A diagnosis may be made after a person experiences two unprovoked seizures, or one unprovoked seizure with a high risk of having more. Anyone can experience a seizure, and 1 in 10 people will experience a seizure in their lifetime. The causes vary widely. Some seizures are linked to genetic factors, brain injuries or other medical conditions. In many cases, however, no clear cause is identified. Regardless of the underlying reason, greater awareness and preparedness can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected.
How Families and Schools Can Make a Difference
Learn Seizure First Aid. Knowing what to do during a seizure can help prevent injury and provide reassurance in a stressful moment. The Epilepsy Foundation’s training offers practical guidance on recognizing different seizure types, responding appropriately and understanding when emergency medical attention is needed. When more people know how to respond, everyone benefits.
Build a Strong Partnership with Your Child’s School. Open communication is one of the most effective ways to support a child living with epilepsy. Sharing medical information including a Seizure Action Plan, helps ensure teachers, school nurses, coaches or activity leaders and transportation staff understand how to respond if a seizure occurs. A coordinated support network creates confidence for families and helps students feel safe throughout the school day.
Help Create Seizure Safe Schools. Every child deserves to learn in an environment where health and safety are a priority. The Epilepsy Foundation continues to advocate for Seizure Safe Schools legislation nationwide while providing educational resources that empower both students and educators. Seizure Safe Classrooms toolkits offer practical tools and information designed to foster understanding, preparedness, and inclusion.
Turn to Trusted Experts. A new diagnosis often comes with questions, concerns and uncertainty. The Epilepsy and Seizures Helpline connects families with trained specialists who can provide guidance on school accommodations, community resources, treatment-related questions and emotional support. Assistance is available by calling 1-800-332-1000 (or 1-866-748-8008 en español). Families can also access Sage, the Foundation’s AI epilepsy assistant, available anytime at epilepsy.com.
Connect with Your Community. Local Epilepsy Foundation offices offer programs and services tailored to the unique needs of their community. Schools, PTAs, and community organizations can work together to host awareness events, offer educational programs, and expand access to training opportunities.
Raise Awareness. Misunderstandings about epilepsy remain common, and stigma can be just as challenging as the condition itself. Open conversations with children, educators, and community members help replace fear with understanding. Sharing accurate information found on epilepsy.com and encouraging seizure first aid training can foster acceptance, inclusion and greater confidence in responding when someone needs help.
Creating a Brighter Path Forward for Students with Epilepsy
At the Epilepsy Foundation, we’re turning hope into action so that no one faces epilepsy alone. When families, schools and communities work together, students gain more than safety. They gain confidence and a stronger sense of belonging. Every child deserves a safe and supportive learning environment. By learning seizure first aid, supporting Seizure Safe Schools, utilizing resources like the Epilepsy and Seizures Helpline and connecting with a local Epilepsy Foundation, families and schools can work together to create safer, more inclusive environments where students with epilepsy can thrive.
National Epilepsy Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder that awareness is only the beginning. Every conversation, every training session and every act of support helps create a more informed and inclusive world for children living with epilepsy. And for these students, that collective commitment can make all the difference.
