Tourette’s Syndrome (TS) affects approximately 1 in every 100 school-aged children. With the first symptoms usually appearing between ages 5 to 10, understanding With the first symptoms usually appearing between ages 5 to 10, understanding Tourette’s Syndrome can be difficult for children without the right support.
In recognition of Tourette’s Awareness Month 2025 (May 15 – June 15), this blog aims to help parents explain TS in a thoughtful, compassionate way — whether your child has been diagnosed or knows someone who has it — so they can better understand differences and develop empathy.

How to Start the Conversation With Your Child About Tourette’s Syndrome?

Talking to your child about Tourette’s Syndrome may feel overwhelming, but it’s a powerful opportunity to nurture emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and kindness. The goal is to explain it in an age-appropriate, gentle, and non-scary way. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help:

  1. Prepare relatable comparisons beforehand

Children are naturally curious and ask direct questions. Before you begin the conversation, prepare some easy-to-understand comparisons. For example:

  • What is Tourette’s Syndrome?
    It’s when someone’s body makes movements or sounds that they can’t control. These are called “tics.” Just like how you can’t control hiccups or sneezes, tics are the same — they just happen.
  • How does someone get Tourette’s?
    Doctors don’t know the exact cause, but it usually runs in families, just like how your eye color might match your dad’s or your smile looks like your aunt’s.
  • Can Tourette’s be cured?
    There’s no cure yet, but there are treatments that can help manage it. Think of it like wearing glasses to help with vision — it doesn’t cure the eyes, but it makes life more comfortable.

  1. Pick a calm environment

Choose a time when your child is relaxed — maybe during a quiet walk or while reading together. Children sense your mood, so stay calm and positive to avoid making the topic feel scary or shameful.

  1. Normalize the condition

Avoid using overly serious tones. Let your child know that everyone’s brain works differently. Some people might need hearing aids or glasses — others might have Tourette’s Syndrome. Use examples of people (including celebrities) who have TS to show it’s nothing to be embarrassed about.

  1. Reinforce confidence or empathy

If your child has TS, build their confidence. Remind them that it doesn’t limit their ability to do great things. They are capable, valuable, and unique.

If your child knows a friend with TS, encourage kindness and understanding. Explain that Tourette’s Syndrome is not contagious, and being a good friend means accepting differences.

  1. Be open to learning together

It’s okay not to know everything. You can explore answers together. Praise your child for their curiosity and check out trusted resources like Tourettes Action’s resource library. This shared learning builds trust and opens doors for future conversations.

  1. Make it an ongoing conversation

This doesn’t have to be a one-time talk. Instead, look for ways to bring it up naturally:

  • Check regularly: Ask casually how their day went. This can open the door to talking about their or others’ experiences.
  • Include siblings: Make sure all siblings understand and support one another. Encourage kindness and empathy.
  • Play together: During pretend play, introduce characters who have tics. Role-play what they would say if someone asks about it. This helps your child grow more confident in handling real situations.
  • Validate feelings: Whether or not your child has TS, remind them it’s okay to feel frustrated or embarrassed. Let them know their feelings are valid and you’re always there to listen.

Empower Your Child With Knowledge

As a parent, it’s natural to want to shield your child from life’s complexities. But facing those complexities with your guidance can help your child become stronger, kinder, and more self-assured. When you’re the one gently explaining Tourette’s Syndrome early and honestly, you help your child embrace differences with understanding and empathy.

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