As a parent, there are moments when you brace yourself for the familiar challenges that come with raising neurodiverse children. With child number four seemingly following in the footsteps of two of my other children when it comes to experiencing tics, I find myself reflecting on the significant lack of support available for parents and young children who are navigating this journey. When kids are too young to engage in therapy or consider medication, it can feel isolating and overwhelming.
My now 7-year-old has been ticcing off and on since she was around 2 years old. Especially since starting school, the frequency and visibility of her tics have increased, peaking from September to January, each year. The tics have become more pronounced than ever this academic year and I can't help but wonder what the future holds for her. But instead of spiraling into worry, I remind myself that I can take proactive steps. Here are some tips and support strategies that you, too, can consider if you find yourself in a similar situation:
One of the most important things to remember as a parent is to avoid drawing attention to your child’s tics. When others point them out, it can create unnecessary stress and self-consciousness for the child. Instead, focus on creating a supportive environment where they feel safe and accepted.
Documenting your child’s tics can be incredibly helpful. Keep a diary to track the frequency, duration, and context of the tics. Note any triggers or patterns you observe. This information can serve as valuable evidence should you need to seek support or professional advice in the future. HOWEVER don't become obsessed with this, just simple note of "school mornings, tic x is more pronounced"
If you feel comfortable, discreetly recording your child during moments when they tic can help you capture the nuances of their behavior. This can be especially useful if you seek guidance from healthcare professionals later on. Just be sure to respect your child's privacy and feelings about being recorded.
It’s important to remember that you are not alone. Research suggests that around 18% of children under 10 years old experience tics. While it can be concerning to see your child struggle, many children outgrow their tics or learn to manage them over time. Staying calm and composed will help you approach the situation with clarity and care. More importantly though, many of them don't even know they're ticcing. It's often more stressful to us parents watching our child tic, then it is for them to be ticcing.
Though the thought of going through this again with my fourth child breaks my heart, I've learned that gathering evidence and understanding the situation is key. I plan to focus on creating a nurturing environment and being there for my child as she navigates this phase.
Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that if she ever feels the need for support or help in the future, we will have the information necessary to advocate for her needs. While the road ahead may be challenging, I will continue to remind myself that we can face this together, one step at a time. I also remind myself that this could be it, she may never get any new tics in the future, so worrying about it won't help anyone in this moment.
To all the parents out there experiencing similar challenges, know that you are not alone. We are in this together, and there is a community of support available for you. Let’s continue to share our stories, strategies, and strength as we navigate the ups and downs of parenting neurodiverse children. Together, we can create a more understanding and compassionate world for our kids.
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