Q: Do students with TS have special educational needs?

A: While school children with TS as a group have the same IQ range as the general population, special educational support may be required. Some types of learning disorders, which when combined with attention deficit disorder and the problems inherent in dealing with the frequent tics, may call for special educational assistance. The use of tape recorders, typewriters, or computers for reading and writing problems, untimed exams (in a private room if vocal tics are a problem), and permission to leave the classroom when tics become overwhelming areoften helpful. Some children need extra help such as access to tutoring in a resource room.

When difficulties in school cannot be resolved, an educational evaluation may be indicated. Any child deemed as exceptional in the system though an IPRC (Identification, Placement and review committee) meeting is entitled to an individual education plan and the support necessary to enhance their chances of successful education. In advance of these meetings a letter from the child's physician or psychologist would greatly assist all those involved.